Stabilizing the tear film to relieve evaporative dry eye
Official title: Determinants of tear film lipid layer stability and modulation in evaporative dry eye disease
Funded at Michigan State University · NIH-11641969 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project tests new ways to stabilize the tear film in people with evaporative dry eye, with the goal of longer-lasting comfort.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2026 |
| Project end | September 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,202,088 |
| NIH project number | 1R56EY037392-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11641969 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with evaporative dry eye disease who have tear film instability and related symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without tear film lipid abnormalities or those not experiencing evaporative dry eye may see limited or no benefit.
What this research studies
Dry eye disease causes burning and gritty sensations due to a destabilized tear film. The research will study how lipid components in the tear film affect its stability and how deficiencies in wax esters or OAHFAs influence tear film biophysics. By using mouse models that mimic human conditions, scientists will examine how altering tear lipids could lead to longer-lasting relief and fewer symptoms for patients. The work aims to identify therapeutic strategies that directly stabilize the tear film rather than only treating inflammation or providing a temporary cover.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients could experience longer-lasting relief from dryness and irritation with new lipid-stabilizing therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Prior studies have shown that tear film lipids influence stability, but direct comparison of specific lipid deficiencies in biophysical properties is still emerging.
Where this research is happening
-
Michigan State University
East Lansing, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leonard, Brian C. — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Leonard, Brian C.
Related research
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This study is looking at how changing the support structure around eye glands might help prevent dry eye and related issues as we age, and it aims to find new ways to help people who struggle with dry eyes.
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.