Blocking multiple kinases to help protect vision in glaucoma
Kinase Multitargeting for Glaucoma Neuroprotection
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11249577
Seeing if blocking several key enzymes (kinases) can protect the nerve cells in the retina and slow vision loss from glaucoma.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11249577 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project focuses on protecting retinal ganglion cells, the nerve cells that die in glaucoma and cause permanent vision loss. Researchers use genetic and chemical screening tools, including CRISPR and targeted compounds, to find kinase proteins that control nerve injury signals. Promising targets have been tested in rodent models and validated in nonhuman primates, and the team plans to combine or 'multitarget' these kinases to improve protection. The goal is a therapy that could work alongside eye‑pressure lowering treatments to better preserve sight.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with glaucoma, especially those with progressive vision loss or who do not get adequate benefit from intraocular-pressure lowering treatments, would be the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: People whose vision loss is already advanced and irreversible or whose optic nerve damage is from non‑glaucoma causes may not benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could slow or prevent vision loss in people with glaucoma by protecting retinal nerve cells.
How similar studies have performed: Related work blocking DLK/LZK kinases has protected retinal ganglion cells in rodent and nonhuman primate models, but limitations (like reduced axon regeneration) motivate this new multitarget approach.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WELSBIE, DEREK STUART — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: WELSBIE, DEREK STUART
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions: Cancer Biology