NIH-funded research R01 grant

Understanding how the eye grows and develops myopia at a cellular level

Official title: Molecular Mechanisms of Emmetropization and Experimental Myopia at Single Cell Resolution

Funded at State College of Optometry · NIH-10913471 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how children's eyes grow and develop myopia (nearsightedness) to find out what causes these changes, with the hope of discovering better ways to prevent or treat myopia in kids.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionState College of Optometry
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project startSeptember 30, 2022
Project endAugust 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$580,561
NIH project number5R01EY033824-03
Project IDNIH-10913471 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are at risk of developing myopia or are already experiencing myopia.

Less likely to help

Patients who are older than 11 years or those with established severe myopia may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex biological processes that control eye growth and the development of myopia, particularly in children. By using advanced animal models, the study aims to uncover the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in emmetropization, the process by which the eye adjusts its shape for clear vision. Researchers will analyze how genetic and environmental factors interact to influence eye development, which could lead to better treatments for myopia. The findings may provide insights into preventing vision-threatening conditions associated with myopia.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and managing myopia in children, reducing the risk of serious eye conditions later in life.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding myopia through animal models, but this specific approach focusing on cellular mechanisms is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

  • State College of Optometry
    New York, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Troilo, David B — State College of Optometry
  • Study coordinator: Troilo, David B

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.