Understanding the eye's microbial community in healthy adults
Official title: Molecular characterization of the ocular microbiome in healthy adults
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10874665 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the tiny germs living on the surface of healthy eyes to see how they work with our immune system, and it’s for adults who want to help us learn more about keeping our eyes healthy throughout the year.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $656,201 |
| NIH project number | 5U24EY035075-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10874665 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are healthy adults aged 21 and older who are willing to participate in sample collection over a year.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with existing ocular diseases or conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the microbial community present on the surface of the eye in healthy adults. By using advanced sequencing techniques, the study aims to identify the various microbes that inhabit the ocular surface and how they interact with the immune system. Participants will provide samples from their eyes over a year, allowing researchers to gather extensive data on the ocular microbiome and its seasonal variations. This comprehensive approach seeks to enhance our understanding of the eye's microbiome and its role in maintaining eye health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of eye health and potential new strategies for preventing ocular diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using similar sequencing techniques have successfully characterized microbial communities in other body sites, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rajagopala, Seesandra Venkatappa — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Rajagopala, Seesandra Venkatappa
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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.