Targeting eye diseases using tiny cell-derived particles for better treatment
Official title: Extracellular vesicle-based intraocular therapy combined with active targeting of ocular neovascularization
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-11251522 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (NVAMD) by using tiny particles called exosomes to deliver medicine directly to the eye, which could make treatments more effective and reduce the number of injections needed.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $197,526 |
| NIH project number | 3R01EY034193-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11251522 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with neovascular age-related macular degeneration who may not be responding well to current anti-VEGF therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of macular degeneration or those who do not have neovascular changes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving treatments for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (NVAMD), a condition that can lead to blindness. It aims to enhance the effectiveness of current therapies by using exosomes, which are small particles secreted by cells that can deliver multiple drugs directly to the affected area in the eye. The study will investigate how these exosomes can be modified to better target the abnormal blood vessel growth associated with NVAMD, potentially reducing the need for frequent injections. By understanding how these exosomes are taken up by retinal cells, the research seeks to develop a more effective and long-lasting treatment option for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for NVAMD, potentially preserving vision and reducing the frequency of injections needed.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using exosomes for targeted drug delivery in various conditions, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Sun Young — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Lee, Sun Young
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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.