Creating new models to test a promising antioxidant for age-related macular degeneration

Development of Two Novel AMD Models for Evaluation of RPE Protection by the Novel Antioxidant D-DHA

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11171773

This study is creating new mouse models to help us learn more about geographic atrophy, a serious type of age-related macular degeneration, and it will test a special antioxidant called D-DHA to see if it can help protect eye cells from damage, which could lead to new treatments for people with this condition.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11171773 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing two new mouse models to better understand geographic atrophy, a severe form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The study will investigate the effects of a novel antioxidant, deuterated docosahexanoic acid (D-DHA), which may protect retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells from oxidative stress that contributes to AMD. Researchers will use advanced imaging techniques and various biological analyses to evaluate the effectiveness of D-DHA in preventing or treating this condition. By creating these models, the research aims to provide insights into potential new therapies for patients suffering from AMD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of or diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration.

Not a fit: Patients with forms of macular degeneration unrelated to oxidative stress or those who do not have age-related macular degeneration may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that slow down or prevent the progression of age-related macular degeneration.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using antioxidants for AMD treatment, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: age related macular disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.