Investigating how a specific signaling pathway affects inflammation in diabetic eye disease
cGAS-STING signaling in diabetic retinopathy
This study is looking at how a specific pathway in the body affects eye health in people with diabetes and aims to see if a medication called fenofibrate can help reduce inflammation and protect vision in those with diabetic retinopathy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11077846 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway in diabetic retinopathy, a condition that can lead to vision loss in people with diabetes. The study examines how inflammation and the activation of certain immune cells, particularly monocytes, contribute to the disease. By exploring the effects of a drug called fenofibrate, which activates a receptor that may help reduce inflammation, the researchers aim to uncover new therapeutic strategies to protect the retina from damage. Patients may be involved in clinical assessments to better understand their condition and the potential impact of treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with diabetes who are experiencing symptoms of diabetic retinopathy.
Not a fit: Patients without diabetes or those who do not have diabetic retinopathy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce inflammation and protect vision in patients with diabetic retinopathy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar approaches targeting inflammation in diabetic retinopathy, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Winston-Salem, United States
- Wake Forest University Health Sciences — Winston-Salem, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ma, Jian-Xing — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Ma, Jian-Xing
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 below.