Understanding how diabetes affects nerve cells in the retina

Role of Intrinsic Neuroprotective Signaling in Diabetic Retina

NIH-funded research State University of New York at Buffalo · NIH-11058667

This study is looking at how a protein called p58IPK might help protect the eyes of people with diabetes from damage that can lead to vision loss, and it's using special mice to learn more about how this protein works so that new treatments can be developed.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionState University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Amherst, United States)
Project IDNIH-11058667 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind diabetic retinopathy, a condition that can lead to blindness in people with diabetes. The focus is on a specific protein, p58IPK, which may help protect retinal neurons from damage caused by diabetes. By studying how this protein functions in the retina, researchers aim to develop new treatments that can prevent or reduce vision loss. The approach includes using genetically modified mouse models to observe the effects of p58IPK deficiency on retinal health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with diabetes who are at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.

Not a fit: Patients without diabetes or those who do not have any retinal complications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that protect vision in patients with diabetic retinopathy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding neuroprotective mechanisms in other conditions, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.

Where this research is happening

Amherst, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.