Investigating how diabetes affects blood flow in the retina
Official title: Endothelin-1 System Activation and Retinal Microvascular Dysregulation during Early Diabetes
Funded at Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr · NIH-10887603 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how diabetes can harm the eyes and cause vision problems, focusing on a substance called endothelin-1 that may narrow blood vessels in the retina; it's for people with diabetes who want to understand how to protect their eyesight better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $378,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY034145-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10887603 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with diabetes, particularly those experiencing early symptoms of retinal complications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without diabetes or those who have advanced diabetic retinopathy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how diabetes mellitus leads to complications in the retina, which can result in blindness. It examines the role of a substance called endothelin-1 in causing blood vessels in the retina to constrict, potentially leading to reduced blood flow and subsequent damage. By studying both arterioles and venules in diabetic subjects, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind these changes and identify potential early treatment strategies. The approach includes analyzing molecular events and blood flow dynamics in the retina of diabetic models.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or mitigate vision loss in individuals with diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding retinal blood flow dynamics in diabetic models, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hein, Travis W — Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr
- Study coordinator: Hein, Travis W
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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.