Understanding Eye Damage in Diabetes
Diabetic Retinopathy, Mitochondria Damage and Long Non-coding RNAs
['FUNDING_R01'] · WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11115813
This project looks at how diabetes harms the tiny powerhouses in eye cells, called mitochondria, and how specific genetic instructions might protect against vision loss.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DETROIT, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11115813 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Diabetes can cause serious eye problems, including blindness, by damaging the energy-producing parts of our eye cells, called mitochondria. This damage involves changes to the mitochondria's own DNA and how certain genetic messages, called long noncoding RNAs, are used. Researchers are exploring how a specific long noncoding RNA, LncCytB, might be linked to this damage and the development of diabetic retinopathy. By understanding these tiny cellular changes, we hope to find new ways to protect vision and prevent blindness.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to help individuals with diabetic retinopathy or those at risk of developing it.
Not a fit: Patients without diabetic retinopathy or diabetes would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that protect the mitochondria in the eyes of people with diabetes, potentially preventing vision loss.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of mitochondria in diabetic retinopathy is known, the specific focus on LncCytB and mtDNA nucleoids represents a novel approach to understanding this disease.
Where this research is happening
DETROIT, UNITED STATES
- WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY — DETROIT, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KOWLURU, RENU A. — WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: KOWLURU, RENU A.
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.