Reducing galectin-3 to help corneal nerves heal
Galectin-3 and corneal nerve regeneration
Looking at whether lowering the protein galectin-3 can help people with corneal nerve damage heal and regain eye sensation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11259462 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project studies galectin-3, a protein found at higher levels in the tears and corneas of people with damaged ocular surfaces. Researchers will use patient tear samples, lab experiments, and animal models to understand how galectin-3 blocks nerve regrowth and to test ways to block its action. The work aims to identify strategies that allow corneal nerves to regenerate properly and restore corneal health and sensation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with neurotrophic keratopathy or corneal nerve damage from severe dry eye, surgery, infection, or injury are the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: Patients with eye conditions that do not involve corneal nerves, such as most retinal diseases or glaucoma, or those seeking immediate clinical therapy may not benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that speed corneal nerve regeneration, reduce corneal ulcers, and improve eye comfort and sensation.
How similar studies have performed: Recombinant nerve growth factor eye drops have shown benefit for corneal nerve disease but have side effects, while targeting galectin-3 is a newer, less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Tufts Medical Center — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Argueso, Pablo — Tufts Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Argueso, Pablo
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.