Targeting nadph oxidase 4 to reduce ocular scarring following chemical burns to the eye

The Defense Health Agency (DHA) awarded $309,086 to the Centre For Eye Research Australia LIMITED, operating as the University of Melbourne Department of Ophthalmology, under the Military Medical Research and Development program (CFDA 12.420) for the project period July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2027. The award supports research focused on targeting NADPH oxidase 4 to reduce ocular scarring following chemical burns to the eye. This research addresses a critical medical challenge with direct applications for military personnel exposed to chemical injury hazards, while also benefiting civilian populations affected by ocular chemical trauma.

The project represents the DHA's investment in advanced ophthalmological research conducted by an internationally recognized eye research institution. The research is expected to advance understanding of ocular scarring mechanisms and develop novel therapeutic interventions to mitigate vision loss resulting from chemical burns. As a Project Grant under the Military Medical Research and Development program, the award follows the standard two-tier peer and programmatic review process and supports hypothesis-driven research with potential to transform clinical outcomes for service members and the broader public.