Using a protein to treat eye injuries caused by chemical exposure
Official title: First Aid Medicine to Treat Vesicant Induced Corneal Injury
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-10912499 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special protein called MG53 can help heal eye injuries caused by harmful chemicals, with the goal of creating a first-aid treatment that can be used in emergencies to protect and repair the cornea.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $748,115 |
| NIH project number | 5U01EY032973-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10912499 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced corneal injuries due to chemical exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with corneal injuries from non-chemical causes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of a protein called MG53 to treat corneal injuries caused by chemical agents like sulfur mustard and nitrogen mustard. The study aims to develop a first-aid medicine that can be applied to the eye to help heal injuries and preserve the integrity of the cornea. By formulating this protein for ocular application, the researchers hope to provide a therapeutic option that can be stockpiled for emergency situations. The approach is based on findings that show MG53 can protect against damage to corneal cells and promote healing.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option for patients suffering from chemical-induced corneal injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar protein-based therapies for corneal injuries, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chandler, Heather — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Chandler, Heather
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.