Targeting inflammation to treat eye infections
Official title: Targeting Innate Inflammation Pathways to Treat Ocular Infections
Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-11001516 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for better ways to treat bacterial eye infections that can cause blindness by testing new medicines that reduce inflammation while still fighting the bacteria, so patients can keep their vision safe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $217,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21EY035725-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001516 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing or at risk for bacterial endophthalmitis or other severe bacterial eye infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-bacterial eye infections or those not experiencing significant inflammation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to better treat bacterial eye infections, specifically endophthalmitis, which can lead to blindness. The approach focuses on blocking innate immune pathways to reduce damaging inflammation in the eye while effectively killing the bacteria causing the infection. By testing new anti-inflammatory drugs alongside antibiotics, the research aims to find more effective treatments that protect sensitive eye tissues. Patients may benefit from improved therapies that prevent vision loss due to these infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for bacterial eye infections, reducing the risk of blindness.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting innate immune pathways for treating inflammation, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Callegan, Michelle C — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Callegan, Michelle C
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.