Investigating how diabetes affects fat production in the retina

Modulating retinal lipid biogenesis in diabetes for therapeutic effects

['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-10857189

This study is looking at how diabetes affects the eye's metabolism and causes the production of certain fats that might lead to vision problems, with the goal of finding new ways to prevent or treat diabetic retinopathy for people with diabetes.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10857189 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how diabetes alters the metabolism of the retina, particularly how it increases the production of certain fats that may contribute to diabetic retinopathy, a leading cause of blindness. By examining the early metabolic changes in the retina due to high blood sugar levels, the study aims to identify potential therapeutic targets to prevent or treat vision loss. The approach includes genetic manipulation to explore the pathways involved in fat synthesis and their role in retinal health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults with diabetes who are at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.

Not a fit: Patients without diabetes or those who do not have any retinal complications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

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

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways for treating diabetic complications, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

SAINT LOUIS, 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.