Understanding how the brain controls the eye’s surface
Official title: Understanding neural control of the ocular surface
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11419012 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This NIH grant aims to uncover how nerves keep the eye’s surface healthy and comfortable by studying the brain’s control of tear production and blinking.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,444,600 |
| NIH project number | 5U01EY034693-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11419012 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates would be people with ocular surface disorders involving nerve or tear system dysfunction, diagnosed by a clinician.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without ocular surface or tear-duct issues may not benefit from this basic science work.
What this research studies
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University will use new tools and models to study how sensory signals from the eye influence tear glands and blinking. They will examine molecular, cellular, and functional interactions that maintain a smooth, healthy ocular surface. The work focuses on neural pathways from the cornea to brain regions that regulate tear film and reflexes that protect the eye. Findings could clarify why nerve damage and inflammation disrupt eye comfort and lead to pain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: A clearer understanding of eye nerve control could lead to better treatments for dry eye and eye pain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that neural control of the eye affects tear production and blinking, supporting potential translational impact.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jenkins, Michael W. — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Jenkins, Michael W.
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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.