Investigating the immune responses involved in glaucoma
Innate and Adaptive Immunity in the Pathogenesis of Glaucoma
This study is looking at how the immune system might play a role in causing glaucoma, a condition that can lead to blindness, by using mice to understand how high eye pressure affects the cells needed for vision, which could help find new ways to treat or prevent the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Schepens Eye Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10913335 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how the body's immune system contributes to the development of glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness. It focuses on understanding the role of both innate and adaptive immune responses in the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells and axons, which are critical for vision. By studying mouse models, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms by which elevated intraocular pressure triggers immune responses that lead to neuronal damage. This could provide insights into new therapeutic approaches for preventing or treating glaucoma.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for glaucoma, particularly those with elevated intraocular pressure or a family history of the disease.
Not a fit: Patients with glaucoma who do not have elevated intraocular pressure or those with other unrelated eye conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent vision loss in glaucoma patients by targeting immune mechanisms.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune mechanisms in other neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Schepens Eye Research Institute — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Dong Feng — Schepens Eye Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Chen, Dong Feng
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 below.