Understanding and Treating Eye Damage from Mustard Gas Exposure
Pathophysiology of Chronic and Delayed Mustard Gas Keratopathy
This work explores how cell aging in the eye contributes to long-term vision problems after exposure to chemical agents like mustard gas, hoping to find new ways to help.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11328908 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
When eyes are exposed to chemical agents like mustard gas, some people develop severe, long-lasting vision issues called mustard gas keratopathy. Our team believes that certain "aging" cells in the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, might be causing ongoing damage and inflammation. We are using laboratory models to understand how these aging cells contribute to both immediate and delayed eye problems. Our aim is to learn if removing or reducing these cells could slow down or prevent the progression of this serious eye condition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for individuals who have experienced eye damage from chemical agents, particularly those who develop chronic or delayed vision problems.
Not a fit: Patients whose eye conditions are unrelated to chemical agent exposure or cell senescence may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that prevent or lessen severe vision loss for individuals affected by chemical eye injuries.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of senescence in other diseases is being explored, its specific contribution to chronic mustard gas keratopathy and the potential for senolytic therapies in this context is a novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- University of Illinois at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Djalilian, Ali R — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Djalilian, Ali R
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.