Using engineered extracellular vesicles to treat vision loss from mild traumatic brain injury
VRC: Engineered extracellular vesicles for mild TBI-induced retinal injury
This study is testing a new treatment to help people with vision loss from mild traumatic brain injuries, like those from sports or accidents, by using special tiny particles from stem cells to reduce inflammation and support healing in the eye.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10845305 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel treatment for vision loss caused by mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), which often occurs in sports and accidents. The approach involves using engineered extracellular vesicles derived from mesenchymal stem cells to reduce inflammation and promote the repair of retinal cells affected by mTBI. By injecting these vesicles into the eye, the study aims to protect retinal ganglion cells and mitigate damage caused by neuro-inflammation. The research builds on previous findings that these vesicles can effectively target and support retinal health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced mild traumatic brain injuries and are at risk of vision loss.
Not a fit: Patients with severe traumatic brain injuries or those without any history of eye-related issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking treatment for preventing vision loss in patients with mild traumatic brain injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles for neuroprotection, indicating potential success for this innovative approach.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- University of Illinois at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Roth, Steven — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Roth, Steven
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.