Using the eye to assess brain health in children with hydrocephalus
Eye as a Window into Brain Health in Pediatric Hydrocephalus
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 ID | NIH-11053591 on NIH RePORTER |
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.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years diagnosed with hydrocephalus.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have hydrocephalus or are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.
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 performed: 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
Philadelphia, United States
- Children's Hosp of Philadelphia — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hwang, Misun — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Hwang, Misun
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 below.