Understanding how pterygium grows and affects vision
Official title: Identifying the molecular determinants of pterygium progression
Funded at Yale University · NIH-10833150 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how inflammation and UV exposure lead to the growth of pterygium, a condition that can cause discomfort and affect your vision, with the hope of finding new ways to treat or prevent it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $209,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R21EY035090-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10833150 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing symptoms of pterygium or those at risk due to UV exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with pterygium who are already receiving effective treatment or those without symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms behind the growth of pterygium, a condition that causes discomfort and can impair vision. The study focuses on how inflammation and ultraviolet (UV) exposure contribute to the progression of pterygium. By analyzing human samples, the researchers aim to uncover the role of specific immune pathways and retroviruses in this process. The ultimate goal is to identify potential targets for new treatments or preventive measures for pterygium.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for preventing or treating pterygium, improving patient comfort and vision.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific mechanisms of pterygium progression are not well-studied, similar research on inflammation and immune responses has shown promise in other conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bakhoum, Mathieu Fahim — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Bakhoum, Mathieu Fahim
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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.