Investigating the role of hypoxia-inducible factors in early diabetic eye disease

Hypoxia Inducible Factors and Hypoglycemia in Early Diabetic Eye Disease

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11019814

This study is looking at how low blood sugar might affect the early stages of diabetic eye disease, focusing on how it could lead to new blood vessel growth that causes problems in your eyes, and it will track changes in your eye health as your blood sugar levels change.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11019814 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how low blood sugar levels may influence the development of diabetic eye disease, particularly in its early stages. It focuses on the role of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF) and their relationship with angiogenesis, which is the formation of new blood vessels that can lead to complications in diabetic retinopathy. By examining the molecular pathways involved, the study aims to uncover new mechanisms that contribute to the progression of diabetic eye disease. Patients may be monitored for changes in their retinal health in response to fluctuations in blood sugar levels.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults with early-stage diabetic retinopathy or those experiencing episodes of hypoglycemia.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced diabetic retinopathy or those without diabetes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or slowing the progression of diabetic eye disease, potentially reducing the risk of blindness.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting angiogenic pathways in later stages of diabetic retinopathy can be effective, but this approach in early stages is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.