Improving accessibility of vision research and therapy using an open-source, extended-reality platform

Active Project Grant Awarded Last action

Award ID
R61EY037510
Recipient
Awarding agency
Obligated
$1,932,051

Award facts

Assistance listing
93.867 Vision Research
Completion date 25% complete
Place of performance
Boston, MA 02115, USA

Award details come from USAspending.gov.

Description

As the agency reported it.

Abstract
This project seeks to develop an open XR platform that can make accessible basic vision science assessments and interventions to people living with visual impairment. In the US alone, over 6 million people live with low- vision, which negatively impacts well-being, economic independence and societal participation. Despite significant advances in healthcare, many researchers, clinicians and patients remain without ready access to the specialized, lab-based instrumentation and software required for the accurate assessment and treatment of vision loss. Our team seeks to leverage vision science insights, software development know-how, and extended- reality (XR) headsets to develop a software/hardware platform that can render basic vision science assessments and interventions widely accessible for all stakeholders. We take advantage of modern, commoditized, XR systems to "bring the lab" to participants. Our proposal builds upon decades of research from the vision science community, whose insights have long been used to benefit people with low vision. For example, automated gaze- contingent procedures that measure basic perimetry, as well as contrast sensitivity, acuity and motion discrimination in specific areas of the visual field have been transformative for understanding vision in those with either peripheral or central visual field loss. Likewise, eye-tracking based interventions that target training to the edges of functional visual fields in those with cortical vision loss, or to the preferred retinal loci of people with macular degeneration have been transformative in helping patients regain visual function that is often not accessible using other means. In this project, we will combine easy-to-use, high-resolution displays, with eye- tracking and optional non-invasive electrical brain stimulation into a single device. This will revolutionize ability to study low vision, and to deploy home-based but well-controlled visual "treatments". In the R61, we will build and test feasibility of research grade assessments and interventions addressing retinal blindness (macular degeneration) and adult cortical blindness (STROKE-INDUCED). The R33 will support stage-1 feasibility trials targeting these two low-vision populations as well as new projects to address pediatric cortical visual impairments and amblyopia, and an open call for seed grants to support additional groups, extending the use cases of this accessible XR platform. At all stages of design, development and implementation, teams of researchers, clinicians, engineers and patients will work together to ensure that developed procedures address the needs and goals of all stakeholders. This principled, trans-disciplinary, team-based approach is designed to maximize access and thus, ultimately serve the lived realities of a great number of people with low-vision.

Transactions

Action Obligated Date
Amendment $556,667
Amendment $0
Amendment $0
Amendment $687,692
Original award $687,692

Subawards

Subrecipient Amount Awarded
Subrecipient not on record UAB will have a site PI who also serves as a MPI on the overall project. Both PIs will supervise all aspects of the project activities at UAB and work in… $82,442
University Of Rochester Subrecipient PI will provide expertise to assist in the design and to help perform pilot testing of a new extended reality device during the R61 phase of the… $89,830
Subrecipient not on record UAB will have a site PI who also serves as a MPI on the overall project. Both PIs will supervise all aspects of the project activities at UAB and work in… $86,268
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Inc. The goals of this pilot grant are to test a new open-source extended-reality platform coupled with noninvasive brain stimulation to promote recovery from… $93,539
University Of Rochester Subrecipient PI will provide expertise to assist in the design and to help perform pilot testing of a new extended reality device during the R61 phase of the… $106,700
The New England College Of Optometry 1. Assist with development, review and adhere to the study protocol methods. 2. Recruitment and organization of study focus groups, including patients with… $18,827

Quick answers

Who received award R61EY037510?

R61EY037510 was awarded to Northeastern University by National Eye Institute (National Institutes of Health) on September 1, 2025.

How much is award R61EY037510 worth?

$1,932,051 has been obligated on R61EY037510.

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