Understanding how age, sex, and menopause affect eye tissue and glaucoma risk
Official title: Assessing the Impact of Age, Sex, and Menopause on Scleral Biomechanics and Gene Expression
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10726826 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how age, sex, and menopause affect the eye's tissues and genes related to glaucoma in rats, to help us understand how these factors might increase the risk of glaucoma as people get older, which could lead to better ways to prevent and manage the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $438,018 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EY035468-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10726826 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, especially women who are experiencing menopause or are post-menopausal.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing age-related changes or are not affected by glaucoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between age, sex, and menopause on the biomechanics of eye tissues and gene expression related to glaucoma. Using a rat model, the study will measure the mechanical properties of the sclera and analyze gene expression changes in response to menopause and aging. By comparing young and older rats, the research aims to uncover how these factors contribute to the risk of developing glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness. The findings could provide insights into how to better manage and prevent glaucoma in aging populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management strategies for glaucoma, particularly in older women.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that age and hormonal changes can significantly impact ocular health, suggesting that this study's approach is both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Feola, Andrew J — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Feola, Andrew J
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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.