Screening for glaucoma using advanced AI technology
Official title: DP24-081 The Glaucoma and Retinopathy Screening Study
Funded at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary · NIH-11029389 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new way to help find glaucoma early, especially for people in underserved communities, by using smart technology to make eye tests easier and more accurate, so we can catch problems before they lead to vision loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | September 29, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $750,000 |
| NIH project number | 1U01DP006822-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11029389 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals from underserved minority populations who may be at higher risk for undiagnosed glaucoma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already diagnosed with glaucoma and receiving treatment may not benefit directly from this screening initiative.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the early detection of glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness, particularly among underserved minority populations. By utilizing advanced autonomous AI technology and virtual perimetry, the study aims to enhance the accuracy and accessibility of glaucoma screening. The approach seeks to identify individuals at risk before significant vision loss occurs, thereby addressing health inequities in diagnosis and treatment. The program is designed to be cost-effective and leverage existing infrastructure used for diabetic eye disease screening.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and treatment of glaucoma, significantly reducing the risk of blindness in high-risk populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using AI for screening diabetic eye disease, indicating a promising potential for similar approaches in glaucoma detection.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Friedman, David S — Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
- Study coordinator: Friedman, David S
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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IOP and CSF Pressure in Glaucoma Risk
This grant studies how eye pressure and cerebrospinal fluid pressure together influence glaucoma risk and vision loss.
-
Comparing tube positions in glaucoma implants to protect corneal cells
This trial compares two tube placements for glaucoma drainage implants to see which better protects corneal cells and controls eye pressure in people with uncontrolled glaucoma.
-
Automated topographic test for glaucoma detection and progression
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-
Using AI on eye scans and genes to predict glaucoma risk
This project uses artificial intelligence on eye scans, vision tests, and genetic information to find people most likely to develop or have worsening glaucoma.
-
AI-based glaucoma screening in community health centers
A new, easy-to-use AI screening approach will be tested in federally funded health centers to help identify people at risk for glaucoma, especially in communities with higher risk.
-
Understanding how glaucoma genes control eye cell function
A long-term research project will study how genetic factors affect eye cells in adults with glaucoma to uncover new ideas for protecting vision.
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.