New imaging technique to detect brain blood vessel issues through the eye
Official title: Novel retinal higher-order capillary hemodynamics imaging for detecting cerebral small vessel disease
Funded at University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11096192 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to look at the health of your brain's blood vessels by examining the tiny blood vessels in your eyes, which could help detect cerebral small vessel disease earlier and more easily than regular MRI scans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | September 14, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,590,022 |
| NIH project number | 1OT2OD038131-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11096192 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with cerebral small vessel disease, particularly those experiencing cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no signs of cerebral small vessel disease or those who do not have access to the imaging technology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the detection of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD), a common condition that can lead to cognitive impairment and dementia. By developing a novel imaging technique that examines the retina, researchers aim to identify changes in blood flow within retinal capillaries, which may reflect the health of blood vessels in the brain. The study will utilize a high-speed, wide-field adaptive optics ophthalmoscope to capture detailed images of retinal blood flow dynamics. This approach could provide a less invasive and more sensitive method for monitoring CSVD compared to traditional MRI scans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of cerebral small vessel disease, potentially improving patient outcomes and treatment options.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using retinal imaging to assess brain health, suggesting that this novel approach may build on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami School of Medicine
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Jianhua — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Wang, Jianhua
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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.