Mapping the mechanical properties of the cornea using advanced imaging techniques
In vivo optical coherence elastography of the cornea: mapping shear and tensile moduli
This study is testing a new imaging technology to see how the cornea, the clear front part of your eye, changes in strength and flexibility as you age or if you have a condition called keratoconus, which can affect your vision.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10892233 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new imaging technology called optical coherence elastography (OCE) to assess the mechanical properties of the cornea, which is crucial for maintaining clear vision. The study aims to measure the tensile and shear moduli of the cornea in real-time, providing insights into how these properties change with age and intraocular pressure. By testing this technology on healthy individuals and patients with keratoconus, the research seeks to improve the understanding of corneal biomechanics and its implications for eye health and surgical interventions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with keratoconus or those undergoing refractive surgery, as well as healthy volunteers for comparative analysis.
Not a fit: Patients with stable corneal conditions who do not require biomechanical assessment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatment strategies for patients with corneal disorders, enhancing visual outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for corneal analysis, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yun, Seok-Hyun Andy — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Yun, Seok-Hyun Andy
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.