Protecting mitochondria to prevent vision loss in glaucoma
Mitochondrial Protection in Glaucomatous Optic Neuropathy
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-10667427
This study is looking at how problems with tiny energy factories in our cells, called mitochondria, might lead to glaucoma, a common cause of vision loss in older people, and it aims to find new ways to protect eye nerve cells by focusing on a helpful protein called AKAP1.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10667427 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness in older adults. It focuses on the role of a protein called AKAP1, which helps maintain mitochondrial health and energy production in nerve cells. By understanding how AKAP1 protects against cell death in the retina, the research aims to develop new therapeutic strategies to prevent or slow down glaucomatous neurodegeneration. The approach includes studying the effects of elevated intraocular pressure on mitochondrial function and exploring potential treatments that enhance AKAP1 activity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with primary open-angle glaucoma.
Not a fit: Patients with glaucoma who do not have mitochondrial dysfunction or those with other forms of vision impairment unrelated to glaucoma may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect vision in patients with glaucoma.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting mitochondrial dysfunction for neuroprotection, suggesting that this approach could be effective in treating glaucoma.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: JU, WONKYU — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: JU, WONKYU
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 below.