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Development of a Biopolymer Hydrogel as a Long-Term Vitreous Substitute

Award Number: R16EY039197
ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL EYE INSTITUTE
OPDIV: NIH
AWARD CLASS: DISCRETIONARY
AWARD ACTIVITY TYPE: SCIENTIFIC/HEALTH RESEARCH (INCLUDES SURVEYS)
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE START DATE: 09/15/2026
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE END DATE: 08/31/2030

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Development of a Biopolymer Hydrogel as a Long-Term Vitreous Substitute - Project Summary Retinal diseases such as retinal detachment and diabetic retinopathy can lead to irreversible vision loss, if left untreated. Treatment often requires removal of the natural vitreous to allow access to the retina through a procedure known as vitrectomy. Post vitrectomy, an exogenous solution, is injected into the eye cavity to substitute the removed natural vitreous to carry out its functions and hold the retina in proper position. However, currently used vitreous substitutes in clinics remain limited by several drawbacks, such as cataract formation, elevated intraocular pressure, and emulsification. This research aims to develop a novel biopolymer hydrogel for use as a long-term vitreous substitute. The proposed study will be carried out according to the following aims: In the first aim, we will synthesize and formulate natural polymer-based hydrogels to replicate the physical and mechanical properties of the natural vitreous. In the second aim, we will conduct in vitro studies to assess the biocompatibility of the hydrogels with retinal pigment epithelial cells and fibroblast cells. Additionally, we will assess the hydrogels stability in vitro in solutions containing enzymes naturally found in the natural vitreous. In the third aim, we will conduct in vivo studies on the most promising candidate in an animal model for 3 months to assess its toxicity and long-term stability. This research project aims to address an unmet need in ophthalmology by providing ophthalmic surgeons with a novel biomimetic vitreous substitute that is durable, nontoxic, and nonimmunogenic, which will ultimately improve treatment outcome, reduce the prospect of another vitrectomy, and lower healthcare costs. Successful demonstration of this approach could lead to applications in other soft tissue replacements, such as corneal and cartilage replacement.


Issue Date FY	Funding FY	Legal Entity Name	Legal Entity Address	Legal Entity City	Legal Entity State	Legal Entity Zip Code	Legal Entity COUNTY	Legal Entity COUNTRY	Assistance Listing	Award Code	Budget Year	Action Date	Action Type	Action Amount

Issue Date FY: 2026 ( Subtotal = $636,694 )
2026	2026	CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, DOMINGUEZ HILLS FOUNDATION	1000 E VICTORIA ST	CARSON	CA	90747	LOS ANGELES	USA	Vision Research	000	1	9/17/2026	NEW	$636,694
														Subtotal = $636,694

Grand Total All Awards = $636,694

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Development of a Biopolymer Hydrogel as a Long-Term Vitreous Substitute

Award Number: R16EY039197

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL EYE INSTITUTE

OPDIV: NIH

AWARD CLASS: DISCRETIONARY

AWARD ACTIVITY TYPE: SCIENTIFIC/HEALTH RESEARCH (INCLUDES SURVEYS)

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE START DATE: 09/15/2026

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE END DATE: 08/31/2030

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