Targeted dendrimer-n-acetylcysteine for protecting vision in glaucoma
Official title: Cell-targeted dendrimer-drug conjugates for safe, effective, and convenient neuroprotection in glaucoma
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11450479 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new patient-friendly treatment aims to deliver a neuroprotective drug directly to retinal cells to help people with glaucoma preserve their sight.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $645,439 |
| NIH project number | 1R01EY038209-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11450479 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with glaucoma or at risk of glaucoma progression who may benefit from neuroprotection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients whose glaucoma is already stabilized or who cannot receive intravitreal/systemic administration may not see a direct benefit.
What this research studies
This project develops a specialized delivery system called HD-NAC that carries n-acetylcysteine to activated cells in the eye. The approach seeks to provide safe, durable protection for retinal nerves by reaching the right cells more effectively than current therapies. The work includes testing in animal models and refining how the drug is delivered to the eye to minimize side effects and improve adherence. If successful, it could complement pressure-reduction treatments and help slow vision loss for glaucoma patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, it could slow or prevent vision loss for people with glaucoma by protecting retinal nerves.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies show that similar dendrimer-drug conjugates can target inflamed retinal cells and reduce neuroinflammation in models of glaucoma.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parikh, Kunal Sailesh — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Parikh, Kunal Sailesh
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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.