Understanding how nerve cell damage contributes to vision loss in glaucoma

Mechanisms of NMDAR contribution to traumatic injury in retinal ganglion cells

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10758609

This study is looking at how certain cells in the eye get damaged in glaucoma, which can cause vision loss, and it hopes to find ways to protect these cells and improve treatments for people with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10758609 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are damaged in glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness. By using a mouse model that simulates optic nerve injury, the study aims to identify factors that influence the survival of different RGC subtypes. The approach focuses on understanding the cellular processes involved in RGC death, which could lead to new strategies for neuroprotection and improved management of glaucoma. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to innovative treatments aimed at preserving vision.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for glaucoma or those already diagnosed with the condition.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of vision loss unrelated to glaucoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that protect nerve cells in the eye, potentially preventing vision loss in glaucoma patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding RGC survival mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.
Conditions Brain DisordersEncephalon DiseasesIntracranial CNS DisordersIntracranial Central Nervous System DisordersBrain Diseases
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.