Mapping the mechanical properties of the human cornea

In vivo high-resolution mapping of the elastic moduli and tensile stress in the human cornea

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10862566

This study is looking at how flexible and strong the cornea is, which is important for good vision and eye health, and it will involve both healthy people and those with certain eye conditions to get a better understanding of how the cornea works.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10862566 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the mechanical properties of the cornea, which are crucial for vision and eye health. By using advanced optical coherence elastography (OCE), the study aims to measure the elasticity and tension of the cornea in detail. It will involve both healthy individuals and patients with specific eye conditions, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of corneal biomechanics. The research will utilize both ex vivo and in vivo techniques to gather precise data on corneal behavior under various conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates include healthy individuals, patients with ocular hypertension, those with keratoconus, and individuals undergoing refractive surgeries.

Not a fit: Patients with no corneal issues or those who have already undergone irreversible corneal surgeries may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic and treatment options for corneal diseases and conditions affecting vision.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using biomechanical analysis for corneal assessment, but this approach with high-resolution mapping is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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 Corneal Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.