Understanding how mitochondrial DNA mutations affect eye health.

Characterizing the role of mitochondrial DNA mutations on retinal degeneration.

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · CLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU · NIH-11030742

This study is looking at how changes in the tiny energy factories in our cells, called mitochondria, might cause eye problems like age-related macular degeneration, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding more about what affects our vision as we age.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11030742 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of mitochondrial DNA mutations in causing retinal degeneration, which can lead to serious eye disorders like age-related macular degeneration. By using advanced pre-clinical models, the study aims to explore how damage to mitochondrial DNA impacts retinal cell health and contributes to degeneration. The researchers will utilize specific tools to increase the mutation rate of mitochondrial DNA and observe the resulting effects on retinal health in both animal and cellular models. This approach will help clarify the relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and retinal diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing age-related retinal degeneration or those at risk for conditions like age-related macular degeneration.

Not a fit: Patients with retinal degeneration due to non-mitochondrial causes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and potential treatments for age-related retinal diseases, improving vision and quality of life for affected patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that mitochondrial dysfunction plays a significant role in retinal diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

CLEVELAND, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: age associated disease, age associated disorder, age dependent disease, age dependent disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.