Preventing vision loss from herpes virus infections in the eye.

Targeting anti-viral and anti-inflammatory responses during ocular HSV-1 infection to prevent vision impairment.

NIH-funded research Auburn University at Auburn · NIH-10651054

This study is looking at new ways to help people with stromal keratitis, a painful eye condition caused by the herpes virus, by boosting the body's natural defenses to fight the virus and reduce inflammation, which could help prevent vision problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAuburn University at Auburn NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Auburn, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10651054 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing new treatments for stromal keratitis, a painful eye condition caused by recurrent herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) infections. The approach aims to enhance the body's natural anti-viral and anti-inflammatory responses by targeting a specific immune molecule called IL-27. By doing so, the researchers hope to reduce the severity of the infection and inflammation, ultimately preventing vision impairment. The study will involve laboratory experiments to understand how IL-27 can help control the virus and improve healing in the cornea.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing recurrent herpes simplex virus infections that lead to keratitis and vision problems.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HSV-1 infections or those with other unrelated eye conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from vision impairment due to HSV-1 infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using immunotherapy approaches to enhance anti-viral responses, suggesting potential success for this novel strategy.

Where this research is happening

Auburn, 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.