Creating a new noninvasive test to detect retinal problems early
Official title: Development of a novel, noninvasive, sensitive measure of retinal dysfunction
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11064593 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new, easy way to check for early signs of eye problems in people with diabetic retinopathy, so doctors can catch issues before they affect your vision and help prevent vision loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $245,733 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EY036209-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11064593 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for diabetic retinopathy, particularly those with diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with retinal conditions unrelated to diabetic retinopathy or those who have already experienced significant vision loss may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel, noninvasive method to measure retinal dysfunction, particularly in conditions like diabetic retinopathy. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to identify early signs of retinal damage before patients experience visual symptoms. This approach could lead to timely interventions that may prevent vision loss. The research seeks to create a more accessible diagnostic tool that can be integrated into routine clinical practice.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve early detection and treatment of retinal diseases, potentially preventing vision loss in millions of patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using advanced imaging techniques like adaptive optics has shown promise in detecting retinal dysfunction, indicating that this approach may build on established methods.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dunn, Felice a — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Dunn, Felice a
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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.