Protecting retinal nerve cells from damage.

Neuroprotection of retinal ganglion cells.

NIH-funded research York College · NIH-11062511

This study is looking at a way to help protect important eye cells from damage caused by conditions like glaucoma and diabetes, using a special compound called HDAP2 that boosts cell energy, and it's being tested in mice to see how well it works.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYork College NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Jamaica, United States)
Project IDNIH-11062511 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how to protect retinal ganglion cells, which are crucial for vision, from dying due to mitochondrial dysfunction in conditions like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. The approach involves using a compound called HDAP2 that enhances mitochondrial function, particularly under stress conditions. By studying its effects in adult mice with optic nerve injuries, the research aims to understand how this treatment can help preserve the health and function of these important cells.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing conditions that threaten retinal ganglion cell survival, such as glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy.

Not a fit: Patients with non-neurodegenerative eye conditions or those who do not have retinal ganglion cell damage may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent vision loss in patients with neurodegenerative eye diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using mitochondrial-targeting compounds to protect nerve cells, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Jamaica, 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 2026-06-15 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.