Investigating the role of Heparanase-1 in eye infections caused by herpes virus

HPSE in Ocular Herpes Infection

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-10914258

This study is looking at how a protein called Heparanase-1 affects the severity of eye infections caused by the herpes virus, with the goal of finding new ways to help people with these infections feel better and protect their vision.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10914258 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how Heparanase-1 (HPSE) contributes to the severity of eye infections caused by the herpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1). The study examines the mechanisms by which HPSE promotes inflammation and viral replication in the eye, potentially leading to vision loss. By exploring the interactions between HPSE and specific proteins involved in inflammation, the researchers aim to identify new therapeutic targets that could mitigate the effects of the virus. Patients may benefit from new treatments that reduce the severity of their ocular infections and improve their overall eye health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing ocular herpes infections or those at high risk for such infections.

Not a fit: Patients with non-viral causes of eye disease or those not affected by herpes simplex virus type-1 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce the severity of ocular herpes infections and prevent vision loss.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways in viral infections, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.