Targeting a protein to treat eye diseases that cause vision loss
Targeting the Ref-1 signaling node for treating ocular neovascularization
This study is exploring new treatments for serious eye diseases that can cause blindness, like diabetic retinopathy and wet macular degeneration, by looking at a protein called Ref-1 and testing small molecules that might help stop the harmful growth of blood vessels in the eye.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10647870 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on finding new ways to treat serious eye diseases like proliferative diabetic retinopathy and wet age-related macular degeneration, which can lead to blindness. The team is investigating a protein called Ref-1, which plays a key role in promoting the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the eye. By using novel small molecules to inhibit Ref-1, they aim to block the harmful processes that lead to these eye conditions. The research includes both laboratory experiments and animal models to understand how Ref-1 contributes to eye disease and to develop potential new therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with proliferative diabetic retinopathy or wet age-related macular degeneration.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of eye disorders not related to neovascularization 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 certain eye diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways for treating ocular diseases, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Indianapolis, United States
- Indiana University Indianapolis — Indianapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kelley, Mark R. — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Kelley, Mark R.
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.