Investigating the causes of diabetic retinopathy

Targeting the Etiology of Diabetic Retinopathy

NIH-funded research Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr · NIH-10672874

This study is looking at how diabetes changes the cells in the eye before any symptoms of diabetic retinopathy show up, with the goal of finding new ways to prevent and treat this eye condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Hershey, United States)
Project IDNIH-10672874 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the early molecular changes in the retina that lead to diabetic retinopathy (DR), a common complication of diabetes. It examines how diabetes affects the translation of mRNA in Müller glia, which are crucial for maintaining retinal health. By identifying the specific molecular events that occur before the clinical signs of DR appear, the research aims to uncover new targets for prevention and treatment. The approach includes advanced techniques like multifocal electroretinography to assess retinal function.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with type 1 diabetes who are at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.

Not a fit: Patients without diabetes or those with other forms of retinal diseases unrelated to diabetes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating diabetic retinopathy in patients with diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the molecular mechanisms of diabetic retinopathy, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

Hershey, 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.
Conditions Diabetes MellitusdiabetesInsulin-Dependent Diabetes MellitusBrittle Diabetes MellitusJuvenile-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
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.