Understanding how certain immune cells affect corneal health

The role of plasmacytoid dendritic cells in corneal immunity

NIH-funded research Tufts Medical Center · NIH-10909875

This study is looking at how special immune cells in the eye help keep things balanced and healthy, which could lead to better treatments for conditions like dry eye and infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTufts Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10909875 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDCs) in maintaining the immune balance in the cornea, which is crucial for preventing diseases like infectious keratitis and dry eye. The study will utilize advanced techniques such as single cell sequencing to identify how PDCs contribute to immune tolerance and manage inflammation in the cornea. By examining the interactions between PDCs and T cells, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to new treatments for corneal diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with corneal diseases such as infectious keratitis or dry eye syndrome.

Not a fit: Patients with non-corneal related autoimmune conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for patients suffering from corneal diseases by enhancing immune regulation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell roles in other tissues, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.