Investigating a protein's role in eye diseases that cause vision loss

Ref-1 in Retinal Neovascularization

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11117193

This study is looking for new ways to help people with vision problems caused by conditions like retinopathy of prematurity and diabetic retinopathy, by testing a protein that could lead to better oral medications for treating these eye issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11117193 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on retinal neovascularization, a condition that leads to vision impairment in diseases like retinopathy of prematurity and diabetic retinopathy. The study aims to develop new therapies that target multiple pathways involved in these diseases, rather than relying solely on current treatments that often have high burdens and resistance issues. By exploring the role of a protein called APE1/Ref-1, which is linked to the regulation of factors involved in neovascularization, the research seeks to find more effective treatment options. Patients may benefit from potential new oral medications that could reduce the severity of their eye conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from retinal neovascularization due to conditions like diabetic retinopathy or retinopathy of prematurity.

Not a fit: Patients with retinal diseases not related to neovascularization may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for preventing vision loss in patients with retinal diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in targeting similar pathways for treating retinal diseases, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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.