Using robotic technology to improve eye imaging for better detection of retinal diseases
Official title: Robotic OCT for automated mapping of outer retinal layer thicknesses
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10811072 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new robot that takes detailed pictures of the layers in your retina to help doctors spot early signs of eye problems like diabetic retinopathy, making it easier for patients to get the care they need without any discomfort.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $215,454 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EY034993-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10811072 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without diabetes or those who do not have retinal diseases may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new robotic optical coherence tomography (OCT) system that can automatically measure the thickness of outer retinal layers, which is crucial for diagnosing conditions like diabetic retinopathy. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to identify changes in retinal biomarkers that are currently undetectable with standard OCT devices. The goal is to enhance the understanding of retinal degeneration and improve early detection of vision-threatening diseases. Patients will benefit from a non-invasive method that provides detailed insights into their retinal health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and better management of retinal diseases, potentially preventing vision loss.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for retinal analysis, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Toth, Cynthia Ann — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Toth, Cynthia Ann
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Investigating genetic factors in Lewy body diseases
This study is looking at how changes in a specific gene might play a role in conditions like Parkinson's disease and dementia, so that people can better understand how their genetics affect their health and possibly find more tailored treatments.
-
Targeting the PAX3-FOXO1 protein in a deadly childhood cancer
This study is looking at a specific protein that helps a tough childhood cancer called alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, with the goal of finding new ways to treat kids who have this illness.
-
Improving population health by studying reproduction and development
This study is looking at how different things in our environment can impact pregnancy and the health of babies, and it’s for people who are planning to have children or are already parents, as it aims to help improve understanding and outcomes for everyone involved.
-
Modeling axon degeneration in C. elegans to help ALS patients
Researchers are using a tiny worm model to uncover how axons break down, which could point to new ways to help people with ALS and related nerve diseases.
-
Induced Suppression of Platelet Activity in Aneurysmal SAH Management
A new approach tests whether carefully reducing platelet activity can improve outcomes after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage.
-
AI-enhanced virtual reality tool to support remote emergency brain surgery training in Tanzania
A new AI-powered virtual reality tool helps non-experts in low-resource areas get real-time remote guidance for emergency traumatic brain injury surgery.
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.