Investigating a new marker for diabetic corneal healing

Wnt5a, a New Diabetic Corneal Marker Related to Wound Healing

NIH-funded research Cedars-Sinai Medical Center · NIH-10923837

This study is looking at how a gene called Wnt5a affects healing in the corneas of people with diabetes, and it hopes to find ways to help improve healing for those who have corneal issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCedars-Sinai Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10923837 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how the Wnt5a gene, which is involved in cell movement and healing, is affected in diabetic patients with corneal issues. It aims to explore the role of Wnt5a in the impaired wound healing seen in diabetic corneas and how its expression can be normalized. By examining the epigenetic changes in diabetic corneas, the study seeks to identify potential therapeutic approaches that could enhance healing and restore normal function in corneal cells. Patients with diabetes who experience corneal problems may benefit from the findings of this research.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have diabetes and are experiencing corneal complications.

Not a fit: Patients without diabetes or those who do not have corneal issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for corneal healing in diabetic patients, potentially reducing vision impairment and discomfort.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using gene therapy approaches to normalize corneal markers in diabetic patients, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.
Conditions Anti-Cancer Agents
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.