Investigating light sensitivity and pupil response in headaches after trauma
Official title: Photophobia and Pupillary Autonomic Dysfunction as Biomarkers of Post-Traumatic Headache
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-10814234 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how sensitivity to light and how your pupils react can help us understand headaches that happen after a concussion, and it’s for people who experience these headaches to help improve their diagnosis and treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2020 |
| Project end | September 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $196,151 |
| NIH project number | 5K23NS105920-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10814234 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are individuals who have experienced a concussion and are suffering from post-traumatic headaches.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of concussion or do not experience headaches may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how light sensitivity (photophobia) and pupil response are related to post-traumatic headaches, which often occur after a concussion. The principal investigator, Dr. Melissa Cortez, aims to develop objective measures for diagnosing and tracking the progression of this debilitating condition. By utilizing advanced techniques in biostatistics and visual function testing, the research seeks to identify biomarkers that can help in the management and treatment of post-traumatic headaches. Patients may be involved in assessments that evaluate their sensory responses to light and other stimuli.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatment options for patients suffering from post-traumatic headaches.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in identifying biomarkers for headache disorders, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cortez, Melissa — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Cortez, Melissa
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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.