Investigating how certain proteins protect the retina in diabetes

PKA and Epac1 inhibit TLR4 to protect the diabetic retina

['FUNDING_R01'] · WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10763439

This study is looking at how inflammation and certain proteins affect diabetic retinopathy, a common cause of vision loss in people with diabetes, to find new ways to help protect your eyesight as the condition progresses.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DETROIT, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10763439 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on diabetic retinopathy, a leading cause of blindness in adults, particularly in its later stages. The study aims to understand how inflammation and specific proteins, such as PKA and Epac1, influence the signaling pathways involved in this condition. By examining the role of toll-like receptors (TLRs) in the diabetic retina, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could prevent the progression of the disease. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments aimed at preserving vision in those affected by diabetes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with diabetes and are at risk for diabetic retinopathy.

Not a fit: Patients without diabetes or those who do not have any signs of diabetic retinopathy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that prevent vision loss in patients with diabetic retinopathy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in regulating TLR4 signaling in diabetic models, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

DETROIT, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.