Using tissue plasminogen activator to treat glaucoma

Tissue plasminogen activator for the treatment of glaucoma

NIH-funded research VA New York Harbor Hlthcare/sys/brooklyn · NIH-11065469

This study is looking at how a medication called tPA might help people with open angle glaucoma by improving fluid drainage in the eye, which could lower eye pressure and help protect against vision loss.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVA New York Harbor Hlthcare/sys/brooklyn NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Brooklyn, United States)
Project IDNIH-11065469 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) as a potential treatment for open angle glaucoma (OAG), a condition that can lead to blindness. The study aims to understand how tPA can improve the outflow of aqueous humor, which is crucial for managing intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with OAG. By examining the safety and efficacy of tPA and its inactive form, the research seeks to provide a new therapeutic approach that targets the underlying pathology of the disease. Patients may benefit from a treatment that not only lowers IOP but also enhances the natural drainage of fluid from the eye.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with open angle glaucoma, particularly those who have not responded well to existing treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of glaucoma or those who do not have elevated intraocular pressure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new treatment option that effectively manages glaucoma and reduces the risk of blindness.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results using tPA in animal models, indicating potential for success in human applications.

Where this research is happening

Brooklyn, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.