Investigating new treatments for corneal swelling caused by cigarette smoke
Official title: Exploring novel modulators for rescuing cigarette smoke-induced corneal edema and examining iPSC-derived corneal endothelial cells as a treatment modality
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10929452 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cigarette smoke can harm the inner layer of the eye's cornea, which helps keep it hydrated, and it's for anyone who wants to understand how smoking affects vision and what new treatments might help protect and restore eye health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $90,178 |
| NIH project number | 5K99EY035363-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10929452 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing corneal edema related to cigarette smoke exposure or those with preexisting corneal conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have corneal edema or are not affected by cigarette smoke may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how cigarette smoke damages the cornea, particularly the inner layer responsible for maintaining its hydration. It examines the loss of corneal endothelial cells due to exposure to harmful substances in cigarette smoke, which can lead to corneal edema and vision loss. The study utilizes human induced pluripotent stem cells to explore potential treatments that could restore corneal function and prevent further damage. By screening various cellular pathway modulators, the research aims to identify effective strategies to rescue corneal health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve vision and prevent blindness in patients affected by corneal edema due to cigarette smoke exposure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using stem cell-derived corneal endothelial cells for treating corneal damage, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Riaz, Muhammad Ali — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Riaz, Muhammad Ali
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.