Investigating the role of neutrophil elastase in diabetic retinopathy

Neutrophil elastase and Gasdermin D in diabetic retinopathy

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE · NIH-10909077

This study is looking at how certain immune cells called neutrophils can harm the tiny blood vessels in the eyes of people with diabetes, and it’s testing a new treatment to see if blocking a specific enzyme they release can help protect those blood vessels and prevent eye damage.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (IRVINE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10909077 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores how inflammatory processes, particularly involving neutrophils, contribute to the damage of retinal capillaries in diabetic retinopathy. It focuses on the role of neutrophil elastase, a protease released by neutrophils, and its potential to cause endothelial cell damage through the formation of cytotoxic pores. The study aims to evaluate the effects of pharmacologic inhibitors of neutrophil elastase on the early stages of diabetic retinopathy, using both systemic and topical administration methods. By understanding these mechanisms, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating diabetic retinopathy.

Who could benefit from this research

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

Not a fit: Patients without diabetes or those who do not have any signs of diabetic retinopathy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy, potentially preserving vision for patients with diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that targeting inflammatory processes in diabetic retinopathy may yield significant therapeutic benefits, suggesting this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

IRVINE, 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 →

Conditions: Acute Lung Injury, Acute Pulmonary Injury

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.