The Anterior Segment Initiative has funded eight research projects to explore the innervation of the eye’s surface. The collaborative projects will examine the molecular, morphological, and functional aspects of corneal pain and sensation, and tearing reflexes. Project findings will inform understanding of dry eye disease, neuropathic ocular pain, migraine, Sjogren’s syndrome, and other conditions that affect the anterior segment of the eye.
These projects bring together large, multidisciplinary teams of scientists, often from multiple institutions. Through this collaborative approach, NEI is supporting the development of new techniques, new resources, and unique datasets that will benefit the vision research field for years to come. NEI has committed over $50M to these projects over the next 5 years.