Understanding how immune responses affect eye tissue in thyroid eye disease
Official title: Molecular regulation of fibroblast activation in Thyroid Eye Disease
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-10900579 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how certain antibodies cause inflammation and changes in the eyes of people with thyroid eye disease, which can make their eyes bulge and affect their vision, and it aims to find better treatment options for those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2021 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $385,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY031398-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10900579 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with thyroid eye disease, particularly those with Graves' disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without thyroid eye disease or those with other unrelated ocular conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which autoantibodies trigger inflammation and tissue remodeling in thyroid eye disease (TED), a condition that can lead to eye protrusion and vision impairment. The study focuses on the role of orbital fibroblasts and their activation through signaling pathways, particularly involving the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R). By utilizing advanced techniques such as 3D cell culture, the research aims to uncover how these processes contribute to the symptoms of TED and identify potential therapeutic targets. The ultimate goal is to improve treatment options for patients suffering from this autoimmune disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, targeted therapies for thyroid eye disease, improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding autoimmune mechanisms in similar conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Woeller, Collynn Fremont — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Woeller, Collynn Fremont
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Why the soft tissues behind the eye overgrow in thyroid eye disease
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-
Understanding how IGF-1R affects thyroid eye disease
This study is looking at how a specific protein called IGF-1R behaves in people with thyroid eye disease, which can affect vision and daily life, to help find new ways to treat the condition.
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Imaging Comparison of 68Ga-FAPI and 68Ga-DOTATATE in Thyroid Eye Disease
This study tests two PET imaging methods (FAPI and DOTATATE) to see which best images activity in the eyes of adults with thyroid eye disease.
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-
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This study tests AMG 732 in adults with moderate-to-severe thyroid eye disease who previously did not respond or relapsed, to see if the treatment helps symptoms and is safe over a rollover period.
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Teprotumumab N01 for adults with thyroid eye disease
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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.