Understanding how the vitreous gel in the eye changes with age

Cellular, molecular and physical mechanisms of vitreous structural heterogeneity underlying posterior vitreous detachment

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · UNIVERSITY OF UTAH · NIH-10916425

This study is looking at how the jelly-like substance in your eye changes as you get older, which can help us understand conditions like retinal detachment, and it's being done by Dr. Eileen Hwang and her team using rabbits to find ways to prevent these issues.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF UTAH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10916425 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the biological and physical changes in the vitreous gel of the eye as it ages, which can lead to conditions like posterior vitreous detachment. The principal investigator, Dr. Eileen Hwang, will use rabbit models to study these changes and employ advanced imaging techniques to analyze the structure and mechanics of the vitreous. The goal is to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to vitreous aging, which is crucial for developing preventive strategies for retinal detachment. This work is supported by a team of experts in vitreous mechanics and retinal biochemistry.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for retinal detachment, particularly those experiencing symptoms related to vitreous changes.

Not a fit: Patients with no history of vitreous issues or retinal detachment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing retinal detachment in at-risk individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding vitreous mechanics and aging, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.