New treatment for glaucoma using nerve growth factor and vitamin B3
Official title: Topical NGF Therapy and oral nicotinamide supplementation for Glaucoma
Funded at Human Cell Co · NIH-11004461 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new treatment for glaucoma that combines eye drops with a vitamin supplement to help protect and improve the health of eye cells, especially for people who haven't had success with current treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Human Cell Co NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Naperville, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $360,897 |
| NIH project number | 1R43EY036753-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004461 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glaucoma, particularly those who have not responded adequately to traditional intraocular pressure-lowering treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with glaucoma who are already experiencing advanced vision loss or those who do not have a diagnosis of glaucoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel therapy for glaucoma that combines topical nerve growth factor (NGF) treatment with oral nicotinamide supplementation. Glaucoma leads to the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells, causing irreversible vision loss, and current treatments primarily focus on lowering intraocular pressure. The study aims to protect these cells from degeneration and enhance their function, potentially offering a new approach for patients who do not respond to existing therapies. The research utilizes animal models to evaluate the effectiveness of the NGF mutein HC201, which has shown promising results in preserving retinal cell health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new therapeutic option for glaucoma patients, potentially preserving vision and improving quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success with similar approaches using nerve growth factor in animal models, indicating potential for effective treatment in humans.
Where this research is happening
-
Human Cell Co
Naperville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jeong, Soon Seog — Human Cell Co
- Study coordinator: Jeong, Soon Seog
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
IOP and CSF Pressure in Glaucoma Risk
This grant studies how eye pressure and cerebrospinal fluid pressure together influence glaucoma risk and vision loss.
-
Comparing tube positions in glaucoma implants to protect corneal cells
This trial compares two tube placements for glaucoma drainage implants to see which better protects corneal cells and controls eye pressure in people with uncontrolled glaucoma.
-
Automated topographic test for glaucoma detection and progression
A new automated method uses topographic structure-function mapping to help diagnose glaucoma earlier and track its progression in patients.
-
Using AI on eye scans and genes to predict glaucoma risk
This project uses artificial intelligence on eye scans, vision tests, and genetic information to find people most likely to develop or have worsening glaucoma.
-
AI-based glaucoma screening in community health centers
A new, easy-to-use AI screening approach will be tested in federally funded health centers to help identify people at risk for glaucoma, especially in communities with higher risk.
-
Understanding how glaucoma genes control eye cell function
A long-term research project will study how genetic factors affect eye cells in adults with glaucoma to uncover new ideas for protecting vision.
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.