Mapping hydration levels in the cornea using terahertz imaging

Terahertz time-domain spectroscopic imaging of cornea for three dimensional mapping of hydration gradients

['FUNDING_R21'] · STATE UNIVERSITY NEW YORK STONY BROOK · NIH-10889357

This study is testing a new, gentle way to see how hydrated your cornea is, which can help doctors better understand and treat eye conditions like Fuchs’ dystrophy and keratoconus, so you can get the best care possible.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTATE UNIVERSITY NEW YORK STONY BROOK (nih funded)
Locations1 site (STONY BROOK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10889357 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing advanced imaging technology to measure hydration levels in the cornea, which is crucial for understanding various eye diseases like Fuchs’ dystrophy and keratoconus. By utilizing terahertz time-domain spectroscopy, the study aims to create a non-invasive method to visualize hydration gradients across the corneal surface. Patients will benefit from improved diagnostic tools that can lead to better management of corneal conditions. The research involves testing the technology on both laboratory models and live subjects to ensure accuracy and effectiveness.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from corneal disorders such as Fuchs’ dystrophy, keratoconus, or those with elevated intraocular pressure.

Not a fit: Patients with healthy corneas or those without any corneal diseases may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and treatment options for patients with corneal diseases.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of terahertz spectroscopy is a novel approach in ophthalmology, similar imaging techniques have shown promise in other medical fields.

Where this research is happening

STONY BROOK, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.