Improving vision in diabetic patients by transferring mitochondria

Correction of diabetic retinopathy by mitochondrial transfer

NIH-funded research University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-11264298

This study is looking at how delivering healthy mitochondria from special cells can help improve energy in the eye cells of people with diabetic retinopathy, with the hope of preventing further damage and keeping their eyes healthier.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Oklahoma City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11264298 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how transferring mitochondria can help restore energy function in retinal cells affected by diabetic retinopathy (DR). The approach focuses on using CD34+ cells, which are important for repairing blood vessels, to deliver healthy mitochondria to damaged retinal cells. By enhancing the bioenergetics of these cells, the research aims to prevent further degeneration of retinal blood vessels and improve overall eye health in diabetic patients. The study builds on previous findings that show mitochondrial transfer can rescue cells from damage and dysfunction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with diabetic retinopathy who are experiencing vision problems due to retinal vascular degeneration.

Not a fit: Patients without diabetic retinopathy or those with other unrelated eye conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve vision and quality of life for patients with diabetic retinopathy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using mitochondrial transfer to improve cell function, suggesting that this approach could be effective for treating diabetic retinopathy.

Where this research is happening

Oklahoma City, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.