Rapid detection of eye infections and antibiotic resistance
Official title: Point-of-Care Metagenomics for Rapid Detection of pathogens and Antimicrobial Resistance in Sight-Threatening Ocular Infections
Funded at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary · NIH-10942812 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new way to quickly and accurately find out what germs are causing eye infections, so that patients can get the right treatment faster and protect their vision.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $425,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R01EY036444-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10942812 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing symptoms of ocular infections, particularly those at risk of vision loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-infectious eye conditions or those who do not exhibit symptoms of ocular infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the diagnosis of ocular infections, which can threaten vision. By utilizing advanced metagenomic sequencing techniques, the project aims to quickly identify the pathogens causing these infections and their resistance to antibiotics. This approach seeks to replace the current slow and often inaccurate diagnostic methods, allowing for timely and targeted treatment. Patients will benefit from a more precise understanding of their infections, leading to better treatment outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the speed and accuracy of diagnosing eye infections, potentially saving patients' vision.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using metagenomic sequencing for pathogen detection, indicating that this approach could be effective in ocular infections as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bispo, Paulo J. M. — Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
- Study coordinator: Bispo, Paulo J. M.
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.