Targeting Epac1 to treat diabetic retinopathy
Epac1 as a novel therapeutic target for diabetic retinopathy
This study is looking at how a protein called Epac1 affects vision problems caused by diabetes, with the hope of finding better treatments that tackle the root causes of diabetic retinopathy, rather than just managing the symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10862855 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Epac1 in the development of diabetic retinopathy (DR), a common cause of vision loss in people with diabetes. By combining genetic and pharmacological methods, the study aims to understand how Epac1 contributes to abnormal blood vessel growth and vascular dysfunction in the retina. The goal is to develop new therapeutic strategies that could improve treatment outcomes for patients suffering from DR, moving beyond current therapies that have limitations. If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that address the underlying causes of DR rather than just its symptoms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy.
Not a fit: Patients without diabetes or those who do not have diabetic retinopathy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new treatment options that more effectively prevent vision loss in patients with diabetic retinopathy.
How similar studies have performed: While anti-VEGF therapies have shown some success, this approach targeting Epac1 is novel and aims to address limitations of existing treatments.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cheng, Xiaodong — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Cheng, Xiaodong
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.