Investigating how the vimentin cytoskeleton affects fluid flow in eye cells.
Official title: The Role of Vimentin Cytoskeleton in the Mechanobiology of Schlemm's Canal Endothelium.
Funded at Northeastern University · NIH-11063281 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in the eye help control fluid flow and how they react to pressure, with the hope of finding new ways to improve treatment for glaucoma and help patients manage their condition better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $245,541 |
| NIH project number | 5R00EY032547-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11063281 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glaucoma or those at risk of developing the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to glaucoma or those who do not have any ocular issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the vimentin cytoskeleton in the Schlemm's Canal endothelial cells, which are crucial for regulating the outflow of aqueous humor in the eye. By examining how these cells respond to mechanical stress and their stiffness, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind increased resistance to fluid flow in glaucoma. The approach includes both in vitro and in situ analyses to assess the biomechanical properties of these cells and their interactions with the surrounding extracellular matrix. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for glaucoma by improving fluid drainage in the eye.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for managing glaucoma and preventing vision loss.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the biomechanics of eye cells, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Northeastern University
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vahabikashi, Amir — Northeastern University
- Study coordinator: Vahabikashi, Amir
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.