Using the eye to assess brain health in children with hydrocephalus
Official title: Eye as a Window into Brain Health in Pediatric Hydrocephalus
Funded at Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-11053591 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how blood flow in the eye can help us understand brain health in kids with hydrocephalus, using a safe and gentle method that could replace more invasive tests.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $693,180 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS126469-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11053591 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years diagnosed with hydrocephalus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have hydrocephalus or are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how changes in blood flow in the eye can provide insights into brain health for children suffering from hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by excess cerebrospinal fluid. By employing a non-invasive technique called ocular contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), the study aims to validate eye blood flow as a reliable biomarker for intracranial pressure and brain ischemia. This approach could help avoid the risks associated with invasive monitoring methods currently used in clinical settings. The research will be conducted using a pediatric porcine model to ensure accurate results before applying findings to human patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective monitoring of brain health in children with hydrocephalus, potentially reducing the risk of irreversible brain injury.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of ocular blood flow as a biomarker is a novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in other contexts, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hwang, Misun — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Hwang, Misun
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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.