# CAREER: An integrated platform to understand neurodegeneration in glaucoma blindness

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · SUNY at Binghamton (NY) · $600,000

## Abstract

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. This disease can progress unnoticed until vision loss occurs. This CAREER project aims to create innovative tools to unlock how glaucoma affects the nerve cells in the eye and to explore ways to detect and treat the disease earlier. The research includes developing a model that mimics glaucoma in animal eyes, using non-invasive technology to monitor nerve health, and applying advanced computer programs to analyze the data. These efforts will help uncover the cause of glaucoma and identify early signs of the disease. The educational aspect of this project will promote eye health awareness through hands-on workshops for K-12 students and new online resources, such as videos that teach at-home eye exercises. The project also includes developing teaching modules for college students to foster a learning environment accessible to all students. Through partnerships with local schools, industry, and community programs, this work aims to inspire future scientists, engineers, and healthcare professionals while contributing to new solutions for glaucoma care.

This CAREER project aims to address key gaps in understanding glaucoma-induced neurodegeneration by developing an integrated platform combining bioengineering tools and neurobiological studies. The platform will include (1) an injectable microbead-based in vivo flow occlusion model to replicate glaucoma-like conditions and achieve sustained intraocular p

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2442112
- **Awardee organization:** SUNY at Binghamton (NY)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** NQMVAAQUFU53
- **PI:** Qianbin Wang
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** CAREER-Faculty Erly Career Dev
- **Estimated total:** $600,000
- **Funds obligated:** $600,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 07/01/2025 → 06/30/2030

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2442112

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2442112, CAREER: An integrated platform to understand neurodegeneration in glaucoma blindness. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2442112. Licensed CC0.

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