New treatment for diabetic eye disease using RXR therapy

RXR-based therapy for diabetic retinopathy

NIH-funded research Wake Forest University Health Sciences · NIH-11293985

This study is testing a new treatment for diabetic retinopathy that delivers special molecules directly to the eye to help reduce inflammation and improve eye health, which could lead to better vision for people with diabetes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Winston-Salem, United States)
Project IDNIH-11293985 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel therapy for diabetic retinopathy (DR) that focuses on delivering specific molecules called RXR agonists directly to the retina. By using a targeted approach, the study aims to reduce retinal inflammation and improve lipid metabolism without affecting blood sugar levels. The therapy involves the use of microparticles that release these RXR agonists over time, potentially providing a long-term solution for managing DR. Patients may benefit from improved vision and reduced progression of eye disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with diabetic retinopathy who are experiencing vision problems related to their condition.

Not a fit: Patients without diabetic retinopathy or those with other unrelated eye conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new treatment that significantly slows or reverses the progression of diabetic retinopathy.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using RXR agonists is promising, it is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in the context of diabetic retinopathy.

Where this research is happening

Winston-Salem, 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 2026-06-13 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.