NCT06993597 Study of Corneal Biomechanics in Glaucoma Patients Using Brillouin Microscopy
| NCT ID | NCT06993597 |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Phase | — |
| Sponsor | University of Maryland, Baltimore |
| Condition | Glaucoma |
| Study Type | OBSERVATIONAL |
| Enrollment | 60 participants |
| Start Date | 2025-09-01 |
| Primary Completion | 2026-03 |
Eligibility & Interventions
Eligibility Fast-Check
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What to Expect as a Participant
This is an observational study. You will not receive an experimental treatment; researchers will collect data based on your existing condition or standard treatment.
This trial targets 60 participants in total. It began in 2025-09-01 with a primary completion date of 2026-03.
⚠ This information is for research awareness only. Always consult your physician before joining any clinical trial. Participation is voluntary and you may withdraw at any time.
Brief Summary
This pilot study evaluates the biomechanical properties of the cornea in glaucoma patients using Brillouin microscopy, a non-contact imaging technique. The study aims to compare corneal stiffness between patients with normal-tension glaucoma, high-tension glaucoma, and healthy controls, and to assess changes in corneal biomechanics following intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering treatment. The goal is to determine whether Brillouin-derived biomechanical measurements can serve as biomarkers for glaucoma risk and progression.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: \- Age 18 years or older Diagnosis of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) or no history of glaucoma (for controls) Open angle on gonioscopy (Shaffer grade 3 or 4) Best-corrected visual acuity of 20/25 or better Refractive error between +3.00 and -5.00 diopters No prior use of topical glaucoma medications Diagnosis of: High Tension Glaucoma (IOP ≥ 22 mmHg on 3 visits) Normal Tension Glaucoma (IOP ≤ 21 mmHg on 3 visits) OR age-matched control with normal optic nerve and visual fields Exclusion Criteria: Corneal abnormalities or conditions interfering with Brillouin or applanation tonometry Retinal diseases affecting RNFL (e.g., macular traction) History of ocular surgery or laser Diagnosis of diabetes History of uveitis History of prolonged steroid use Neurodegenerative or systemic diseases (e.g., multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, schizophrenia) Unreliable visual fields Contraindications to beta blockers (e.g., bradycardia, severe pulmonary disease) Moderate to severe glaucoma (per Hodapp-Anderson-Parrish criteria) History of contact lens use Low blood pressure
Contact & Investigator
Osamah Saeedi, MD
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
University of Maryland, Baltimore
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join the NCT06993597 clinical trial?
This trial is open to participants of all sexes, aged 18 Years or older, studying Glaucoma. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria are listed in the Eligibility Criteria section. Always confirm your eligibility with the research team before applying.
Is NCT06993597 currently recruiting?
Yes, NCT06993597 is actively recruiting participants. Contact the research team at osaeedi@som.umaryland.edu for enrollment information.
Where is the NCT06993597 trial being conducted?
This trial is being conducted at Baltimore, United States.
Who is sponsoring the NCT06993597 clinical trial?
NCT06993597 is sponsored by University of Maryland, Baltimore. The principal investigator is Osamah Saeedi, MD at University of Maryland, Baltimore. The trial plans to enroll 60 participants.