Understanding how Smad4 regulates the corneal stroma
Official title: Smad4 is a master regulator for extracellular matrix homeostasis in the corneal stroma
Funded at University of Cincinnati · NIH-11035627 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Smad4 helps keep the cornea healthy and clear, which is important for good vision, and it's for anyone interested in understanding more about corneal diseases and potential new treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $243,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EY037000-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035627 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with corneal thinning or other related ocular conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with corneal conditions unrelated to ECM homeostasis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Smad4 in maintaining the balance of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the corneal stroma, which is crucial for clear vision. By studying genetically modified mice, the researchers aim to understand how disruptions in Smad4 affect corneal structure and function. The approach involves examining the differences in corneal thinning between mice lacking Smad4 and those lacking another receptor, Tbr1, to uncover the mechanisms behind ECM synthesis and degradation. This could lead to insights into potential treatments for corneal diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for corneal disorders that affect vision.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting the TGF-β signaling pathway can lead to significant advancements in understanding corneal health, suggesting this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Chia-Yang — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Liu, Chia-Yang
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Immune and nerve signals behind acupuncture relief for sickle cell pain
This NIH grant explores how acupuncture helps reduce pain and opioid use for people with sickle cell disease.
-
MnSOD modification drives a stem-cell like switch in some ER-positive breast cancers
A small study in ER-positive breast cancer looks at how a specific mitochondrial change (MnSOD-K68 acetylation) may push cancer cells toward a more stem-like, therapy-resistant state.
-
Lineage changes in cancer cells drive resistance to radiation and hormone therapy
A cancer-focused study looks at how a mitochondrial enzyme modification may cause tumor cells to resist radiation and hormone therapy in prostate cancer.
-
Repurposed Antiretroviral Therapies to Eliminate Cervical Cancer
A pilot study tests a self-administered vaginal capsule with protease inhibitors to safely treat cervical precancer (CIN 2/3) in women, using a non-invasive approach.
-
Recombinant factor VIIa given very early for bleeding stroke
This trial gives a clotting medicine called rFVIIa very soon after a spontaneous brain bleed to adults to try to improve recovery.
-
Early Factor VIIa treatment for bleeding stroke
This project tests whether giving a clotting medicine called recombinant Factor VIIa very soon after a spontaneous brain bleed helps adults recover better than standard care alone.
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.