New treatment for glaucoma using nerve growth factor and vitamin B3

Topical NGF Therapy and oral nicotinamide supplementation for Glaucoma

NIH-funded research Human Cell Co · NIH-11004461

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 typeSbir 1 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionHuman Cell Co NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Naperville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11004461 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glaucoma, particularly those who have not responded adequately to traditional intraocular pressure-lowering treatments.

Not a fit: 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.

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 performed: 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

Naperville, 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.
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.