Understanding how corneal cells communicate during healing and scarring
Official title: Mechanisms of corneal stromal activation during regeneration and fibrosis by exosomes
Funded at Schepens Eye Research Institute · NIH-10914877 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny particles released by cells in the eye to see how they help the cornea heal and whether they can prevent scarring, which could lead to better vision for people with corneal issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Schepens Eye Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $120,085 |
| NIH project number | 5K99EY033830-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10914877 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with moderate to severe corneal wounds or scarring that may lead to visual impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with corneal conditions unrelated to scarring or those who do not have significant visual impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the healing process of the cornea, particularly focusing on how these vesicles influence cell communication and the formation of scar tissue. By analyzing the secretome of corneal epithelial cells, the study aims to identify the bioactive components that contribute to either healing or fibrosis. The researchers will explore how different factors, such as TGF-β1 and TGF-β3, affect the behavior of corneal fibroblasts and their differentiation into myofibroblasts, which are crucial in scar formation. This work could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing corneal scarring and improving visual outcomes for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reduce corneal scarring, potentially improving vision for affected patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of extracellular vesicles in cell communication and healing, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Schepens Eye Research Institute
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yeung, Vincent — Schepens Eye Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Yeung, Vincent
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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.