National Glaucoma Research
For the last 45 years, National Glaucoma Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program, has accelerated groundbreaking research into the root causes of this sight-stealing disease and a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. We support exceptional scientists worldwide studying cutting-edge prevention strategies, treatments, and a cure to defeat glaucoma.
Our Impact: Making a Difference
National Glaucoma Research is currently supporting a global portfolio of 31 active research grants, a more than $5.6 million investment. Our grants are vetted through a rigorous evaluation process by the world’s top scientists and clinicians who serve on our scientific review committee.
With our grants, scientists are developing and testing hundreds of hypotheses about how the disease destroys the optic nerve and results in vision loss and blindness.
31
Active scientific research projects supported worldwide
102
Glaucoma scientists currently supported through our grants
More than $52 million
Invested in glaucoma research since inception
Recent News
News & Breakthroughs
Protecting Vision: A New Approach to Scar-Free Healing From Glaucoma Surgery
BrightFocus National Glaucoma Research-funded scientist Jennifer Fan Gaskin, PhD, is exploring safer, more effective treatments to prevent scarring after glaucoma filtration surgery, also known as trabeculectomy.
National Glaucoma Research Grantee Receives $2.2 Million Follow-On Award Aimed at Curing Blindness
Additional funding is propelling BrightFocus-funded scientist Jason Meyer, PhD, toward advances in whole-eye transplantation.
Harnessing Artificial Intelligence to Transform Glaucoma Detection
A National Glaucoma Research-funded scientist is pioneering the use of artificial intelligence and telemedicine to detect glaucoma earlier, improve access to care, and prevent irreversible blindness.
How Some Eye Cells Survive Glaucoma
BrightFocus National Glaucoma Research-funded scientist Mengya Zhao, PhD, uses a unique combination of techniques to understand why certain retinal cells stay strong in glaucoma while others don’t.
A Key Model to Study Cellular Functions to Better Treat Glaucoma
BrightFocus National Glaucoma Research-funded scientist Samuel Herberg, PhD, is using a 3D model of the fluid drainage tissue that could improve our ability to understand and treat glaucoma.
How the Breakdown of Cellular ‘Powerhouses’ Drives Exfoliation Glaucoma
A study yields new insights that could inspire novel treatments for exfoliation glaucoma.
Looking Beyond Pressure-Lowering Drugs to Treat Glaucoma
A National Glaucoma Research-funded scientist is building a 3D model of the optic nerve that she hopes will solve unanswered questions about glaucoma—and inspire new treatments.
A Key Protein Could Alter Risk for Pseudoexfoliation Glaucoma
BrightFocus National Glaucoma Research-funded scientist Hannah Youngblood, PhD, is investigating the role of an important protein called LOXL1 to pave the way for new glaucoma treatments.
Could Listening in to Cellular Communication Help Treat Glaucoma?
By unlocking the secrets of how cells communicate, this first-of-its-kind BrightFocus National Glaucoma Research-funded study could help prevent vision loss and restore sight for those living with the disease.
Why It Matters
Why Glaucoma Research Matters
Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide, according to the World Health Organization, affecting 80 million people.
Given the aging of the world’s population, this number may increase to more than 111 million by 2040. In the United States, glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness among African Americans and Hispanics.
National Glaucoma Research is on a mission to cure this sight-stealing disease.
We believe that by providing initial funding for highly innovative experimental research and creative ideas, we can spark revolutionary approaches and vision-saving breakthroughs.
Our Approach to Research
National Glaucoma Research takes a 360-degree approach to funding innovative scientific research worldwide to defeat glaucoma. We explore the full range of scientific paths–from controlling eye pressure in new ways to protecting and regenerating the optic nerve–to uncover new techniques for preventing, treating, and curing glaucoma.
Resources
We’re here for you.
What I Wish I Knew About Glaucoma: Your Top Questions Answered
In this chat, Dr. Poonam Misra addresses some of the most common questions listeners have shared over the past year—from treatment options and lifestyle considerations to the latest educational resources.
Dry Eye and Glaucoma
Dr. Astrid Werner explains what causes dry eye, how to recognize the symptoms, and effective treatment options—including preservative-free drops, artificial tears, and eyelid care routines.
Paying Forward the Benefits of Research
Meet Richard, a loyal donor to BrightFocus’ National Glaucoma Research and Macular Degeneration Research programs.
Can We Restore Vision Loss from Glaucoma? What the Research Says
Join us for a fascinating conversation with Dr. Lucy Q. Shen as we explore cutting-edge research into restoring vision loss from glaucoma.
The Top Five Questions to Ask Your Eye Doctor
Preparing ahead of time can help you best manage your vision health. Here are some questions you can take along when you visit the eye doctor.
Staying Ahead of Glaucoma: Why a Proactive Approach Matters
Learn how early intervention can preserve sight and improve quality of life.
Diet, Exercise, and Other Habits That May Help Reduce Glaucoma Risk
A healthy lifestyle can benefit more than just your heart — it may help protect your vision, too. Learn what the latest research says about diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management in glaucoma care.
Promising Research to Defeat Glaucoma
Learn about some of these groundbreaking research projects and how they are advancing earlier detection, risk reduction, treatments, and, ultimately, a cure for glaucoma.
3 Subtle Signs Your Glaucoma May Be Getting Worse
In between doctor visits, you are the best advocate for detecting changes to your glaucoma. Discover the key symptoms to watch for and how early action can help protect your vision.
Support Groundbreaking Glaucoma Research
Your support helps fund critical research that could prevent vision loss, provide valuable information to the public, and cure this sight-stealing disease.
Grants & Scientists
Apply for a Research Grant
National Glaucoma Research provides research funds for U.S. domestic and international researchers studying glaucoma.