Understanding how the brain controls eye movements
Official title: Cortical and Brainstem Contributions to Binocular Eye Movements
Funded at Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute · NIH-10892023 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our eyes work together and can move independently, especially for people with strabismus, to find better ways to understand and treat eye movement issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $484,509 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY034626-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10892023 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing strabismus or other eye movement disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with normal eye movement function are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural mechanisms behind how our eyes move together, challenging traditional theories that assume both eyes move in unison. By examining how each eye can operate independently, the study aims to uncover new insights into eye movement control, particularly in conditions like strabismus. The researchers will use advanced techniques to analyze eye movements under different viewing conditions, potentially leading to improved diagnostic and treatment strategies for eye movement disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better assessment and treatment options for patients with eye movement disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While this approach challenges existing theories, it builds on preliminary findings that suggest independent control of eye movements, indicating potential for novel insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heinen, Stephen J — Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Heinen, Stephen J
Related research
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How the brain coordinates both eyes
Looking at whether separate brain areas let each eye move on its own or move together, which could help people with eye alignment problems like strabismus.
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.