Understanding and Treating Eye Problems After Stem Cell Transplants
Immune Mechanisms in Ocular Graft versus Host Disease
This research aims to understand why the eyes are affected by Graft versus Host Disease after stem cell transplants and to find new ways to help patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10823360 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many patients who receive life-saving stem cell transplants can develop a serious complication called Graft versus Host Disease (GVHD), where the donor cells attack the patient's own body. A common and often vision-threatening form of this condition is ocular GVHD, which damages the eyes and causes severe dry eye and other problems. Currently, treatment options for ocular GVHD are limited and often only provide temporary relief. This project uses advanced laboratory models to uncover the specific immune system changes that cause eye damage in GVHD, with the goal of developing more effective treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant to patients who have undergone allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and developed ocular Graft versus Host Disease.
Not a fit: Patients who have not had an allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant or who do not experience ocular Graft versus Host Disease would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new and more effective treatments for patients suffering from ocular Graft versus Host Disease, potentially preserving their vision and improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While current treatments are limited, this research builds upon recent findings that identify specific immune pathways involved in ocular GVHD, suggesting a novel approach to developing new therapies.
Where this research is happening
Coral Gables, United States
- University of Miami School of Medicine — Coral Gables, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Perez, Victor L — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Perez, Victor L
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.