Light-sensing cells for healing injured eyes
Photoreceptor induction in wounded corneas
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11172583
This work explores how light might help corneas heal after injury, potentially preventing vision loss.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11172583 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
When the clear front part of the eye, called the cornea, gets hurt, it can lead to serious vision problems or even blindness. We've found that injured corneas can actually sense light and that violet light seems to speed up healing in mice. This project aims to understand how a special light-sensitive protein, Opn5, helps the cornea heal and how light signals are communicated within these cells. We will also look into how other factors might influence the presence of Opn5 and its communication with the rest of the eye.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to help individuals who suffer from corneal injuries that could lead to vision impairment.
Not a fit: Patients without corneal injuries or those whose vision problems are unrelated to corneal healing may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new light-based treatments to improve corneal wound healing and prevent blindness.
How similar studies have performed: While the idea of light influencing corneal healing is a novel area, previous work has shown that injured corneas become light-sensitive and that violet light accelerates healing in mouse models.
Where this research is happening
SEATTLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON — SEATTLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BUHR, ETHAN D — UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
- Study coordinator: BUHR, ETHAN D
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.