New ways to help corneal nerves heal
New models, new approaches, new horizons in corneal nerve regeneration
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11305980
This project is looking at whether activating a receptor called NMDAR can help damaged corneal nerves regrow and restore a healthier eye surface.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11305980 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From the patient perspective, researchers are studying how corneal nerves — the tiny nerves that keep the front of the eye healthy and sensitive — recover after injury. They will use laboratory models and advanced imaging techniques to watch nerve regrowth and examine the molecular signals involved. The team is focusing on NMDAR, a receptor shown to boost nerve regeneration elsewhere, to see if it can restore normal nerve density and shape in the cornea. Findings will guide new experimental therapies that could later be tested in people with corneal nerve damage.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with corneal nerve damage from causes such as trauma, infection, refractive surgery, or certain metabolic conditions would be the most likely candidates for future therapies informed by this work.
Not a fit: Patients whose vision problems are caused by non-nerve issues (for example, advanced corneal scarring or unrelated retinal disease) are unlikely to benefit from nerve-regeneration approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that help damaged corneal nerves regrow, improving eye surface health, sensation, and healing.
How similar studies have performed: Laboratory studies in other peripheral nerves have shown NMDAR-related approaches can promote regrowth, but applying this idea to corneal nerves is new and not yet proven in humans.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LEE, VIVIAN — UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
- Study coordinator: LEE, VIVIAN
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.