Stem cell repair for the eye's drainage tissue (trabecular meshwork)
Mechanisms of Trabecular Meshwork Regeneration by Stem Cells
This project looks at whether human stem cells can rebuild the eye's drainage tissue to lower pressure and protect vision for people with glaucoma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11304558 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will use human trabecular meshwork stem cells and lab models to see how the cells find, attach to, and integrate into damaged drainage tissue. They will study the molecular signals (such as CXCR4/SDF1 and integrins) that guide stem cell homing and tissue remodeling. In mouse models the team will deliver cells into the front of the eye and measure whether outflow improves, intraocular pressure drops, and retinal ganglion cells are preserved. The work aims to translate those laboratory findings toward safer, targeted ways to restore drainage function in glaucoma.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with glaucoma caused by poor trabecular meshwork drainage and elevated intraocular pressure, particularly older adults with early to moderate disease, would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: Patients with angle-closure glaucoma, certain secondary glaucomas, or very advanced optic nerve damage are less likely to benefit from a trabecular meshwork regeneration approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could restore the eye's drainage system, lower eye pressure, and help prevent vision loss from glaucoma.
How similar studies have performed: Prior preclinical work, including intracameral injections in mouse glaucoma models, has shown these stem cells can regenerate the trabecular meshwork and lower eye pressure, so this builds on promising animal results.
Where this research is happening
Tampa, United States
- University of South Florida — Tampa, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Du, Yiqin — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Du, Yiqin
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.