Investigating a new treatment target for diabetic retinopathy
Official title: Allosteric regulation of REDD1 as a therapeutic target for diabetic retinopathy
Funded at Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr · NIH-11068226 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called REDD1 affects eye health in people with diabetes, with the goal of finding new ways to protect vision and prevent damage from diabetic retinopathy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hershey, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $36,473 |
| NIH project number | 1F31EY037121-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11068226 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with diabetic retinopathy, particularly those experiencing vision issues related to diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without diabetes or those who do not have diabetic retinopathy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on diabetic retinopathy, a serious eye condition caused by diabetes that can lead to blindness. It examines the role of a protein called REDD1, which increases in the retina due to diabetes and is linked to vision problems. The study aims to understand how REDD1 levels are regulated and to explore new treatment strategies that could prevent retinal damage in diabetic patients. By investigating the molecular mechanisms behind REDD1, the research seeks to identify more effective therapies for those affected by this condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for diabetic retinopathy, potentially preserving vision for many patients.
How similar studies have gone: While previous approaches to targeting REDD1 have faced challenges, this research aims to build on new discoveries that could lead to successful interventions.
Where this research is happening
-
Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
Hershey, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yerlikaya, Esma Irem — Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Yerlikaya, Esma Irem
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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.