Investigating the role of Interleukin-6 in diabetic retinopathy
Official title: Targeting Interleukin-6 cis-trans balance in Müller cell dysfunction
Funded at Augusta University · NIH-11115840 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called IL-6 impacts diabetic retinopathy, a common cause of vision loss in people with diabetes, and aims to find ways to protect and improve the health of eye cells to help those affected by this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $385,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY035995-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11115840 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy who are experiencing vision impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with diabetic retinopathy who are not responsive to IL-6 modulation or have other complicating ocular conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how Interleukin-6 (IL-6) affects diabetic retinopathy, a leading cause of blindness in adults. The study examines the different signaling pathways of IL-6, specifically how 'cis-signaling' and 'trans-signaling' influence the health of retinal cells. By selectively inhibiting the harmful effects of IL-6, the researchers aim to restore normal function in retinal cells and improve the blood-retinal barrier. This approach could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for diabetic retinopathy, potentially reducing the risk of blindness in affected patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting IL-6 signaling pathways for other inflammatory conditions, suggesting potential success in this novel approach for diabetic retinopathy.
Where this research is happening
-
Augusta University
Augusta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sharma, Shruti — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Sharma, Shruti
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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.