Investigating the role of primary cilia in astrocytes related to glaucoma
Official title: Primary Cilia of Astrocytes in Glaucoma
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-10876965 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny structures in brain cells called primary cilia might help protect the nerve cells in your eyes from damage in glaucoma, with the hope that it could lead to new ways to prevent vision loss for people with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $123,778 |
| NIH project number | 5K99EY034932-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10876965 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glaucoma or at risk of developing the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of vision impairment not related to glaucoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how primary cilia in astrocytes may influence the survival of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness. The study will explore the mechanisms by which these cilia detect signals and potentially protect RGCs from degeneration. Using experimental mouse models of glaucoma, researchers will investigate the role of sonic hedgehog signaling in astrocytes and its impact on RGC health. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting astrocytes to prevent vision loss in glaucoma patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that protect vision by targeting astrocytes in glaucoma.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting astrocytes for neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ning, Ke Veronica — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Ning, Ke Veronica
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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.