NIH-funded research R01 grant

Understanding the genetics of childhood glaucoma in India

Official title: Genetic profiling of childhood glaucoma in India

Funded at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary · NIH-10982952 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at the genes that might cause childhood glaucoma, a condition that can lead to blindness, by analyzing the DNA of 480 children in India to find out more about the genetic changes linked to the disease, with the hope of improving how we diagnose and treat it, especially in areas where medical help is hard to get.

More Glaucoma research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project startSeptember 30, 2024
Project endJuly 31, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$425,000
NIH project number1R01EY036648-01
Project IDNIH-10982952 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with glaucoma, particularly those living in India.

Less likely to help

Patients with adult-onset glaucoma or those without a confirmed diagnosis of childhood glaucoma may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the genetic factors contributing to childhood glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness. By conducting large-scale genetic profiling of affected children in India, the study aims to identify known and novel genetic mutations associated with the disease. The approach includes whole exome sequencing to analyze the DNA of 480 children, which will help in understanding the frequency of these mutations and their clinical implications. This research seeks to improve diagnostic options and treatment strategies for childhood glaucoma, particularly in regions where access to care is limited.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatment options for children suffering from glaucoma, potentially preventing blindness.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has successfully identified genetic factors in adult glaucoma, but this specific focus on childhood glaucoma is relatively novel and underexplored.

Where this research is happening

  • Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
    Boston, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Wiggs, Janey L — Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
  • Study coordinator: Wiggs, Janey L

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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  • Automated topographic test for glaucoma detection and progression

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  • Using AI on eye scans and genes to predict glaucoma risk

    This project uses artificial intelligence on eye scans, vision tests, and genetic information to find people most likely to develop or have worsening glaucoma.

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  • AI-based glaucoma screening in community health centers

    A new, easy-to-use AI screening approach will be tested in federally funded health centers to help identify people at risk for glaucoma, especially in communities with higher risk.

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  • Understanding how glaucoma genes control eye cell function

    A long-term research project will study how genetic factors affect eye cells in adults with glaucoma to uncover new ideas for protecting vision.

    NIH research Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary · Boston, United States · NIH-11450761

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.