Protecting Nerves in Glaucoma with AIBP
AIBP-mediated neuroprotection in glaucomatous optic neuropathy
This research looks at how a protein called AIBP might protect the optic nerve from damage in people with glaucoma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11110380 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Glaucoma is a major cause of vision loss, often involving inflammation and nerve damage in the eye. Our team is exploring how a specific protein, AIBP, can help reduce this inflammation and protect the nerve cells that are vital for sight. We believe AIBP works by managing cholesterol in inflammatory cells and improving the health of the cells' energy-producing parts. Early findings suggest that AIBP levels are lower in people with glaucoma, and boosting it could offer a new way to prevent further vision loss.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research focuses on understanding the disease mechanisms in glaucoma, which could eventually benefit patients with primary open-angle glaucoma.
Not a fit: Patients whose glaucoma is not linked to the specific inflammatory or metabolic pathways targeted by AIBP may not directly benefit from this particular approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that protect the optic nerve from damage in glaucoma, potentially preserving vision.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies by this research group have shown promising evidence that AIBP deficiency is linked to glaucoma-related inflammation and nerve cell dysfunction.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ju, Wonkyu — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Ju, Wonkyu
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.