Mapping the mechanical properties of the optic nerve head and surrounding tissue in the eye
Biomechanical mapping of the optic nerve head and peripapillary sclera using high frequency ultrasonic elastography
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · NIH-10749877
This study is testing a new way to take pictures of the optic nerve and the surrounding area in people with glaucoma, using sound waves to see how the eye's structure changes over time, which could help doctors understand the disease better and create more personalized treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10749877 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new imaging technique to non-invasively measure the mechanical properties of the optic nerve head and the surrounding sclera in patients with glaucoma. By using high-frequency ultrasonic elastography, the study aims to understand how changes in these properties relate to glaucoma progression, particularly in different age groups and racial backgrounds. The approach involves creating two imaging systems that will allow researchers to push and track tissue displacement at a microscopic level, providing valuable insights into the disease's mechanisms. This could lead to better risk assessment and personalized treatment strategies for patients suffering from glaucoma.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with glaucoma or those at risk of developing the condition, particularly older adults and diverse racial groups.
Not a fit: Patients without glaucoma or those who do not have risk factors for the disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools for glaucoma, allowing for earlier detection and better management of the disease.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using high-frequency ultrasonic elastography is innovative, similar imaging techniques have shown promise in other areas of ocular research, suggesting potential for success in this application.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — Los Angeles, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ZHOU, QIFA — UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
- Study coordinator: ZHOU, QIFA
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.