Understanding how eye growth leads to myopia
Official title: Mechanisms of axial elongation in myopia
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11045080 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how a substance called all-trans retinoic acid affects eye growth in people with myopia, or nearsightedness, to help find better ways to stop or slow down the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2022 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $559,114 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY033361-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11045080 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of developing high myopia or those already diagnosed with myopia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable vision or those who do not have myopia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind myopia, a condition where the eye grows too long, causing vision problems. It focuses on the role of all-trans retinoic acid (atRA) in the signaling pathways that influence eye growth and shape. By using animal models and advanced engineering tools, the study aims to uncover how atRA affects the remodeling of eye tissues, which is crucial for developing effective treatments to prevent or halt myopia progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new interventions that prevent or slow the progression of myopia, reducing the risk of severe vision impairment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of molecular signaling in eye growth, making this approach a continuation of established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pardue, Machelle T. — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Pardue, Machelle T.
Related research
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PICNIC: Factors inside the eye linked to childhood near-sightedness
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Peripheral vision factors behind kids’ nearsightedness
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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.