Using extracellular vesicles to treat diabetic retinopathy

Extracellular Vesicle Therapy for Diabetic Retinopathy

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · NIH-10723000

This study is testing a new treatment for diabetic retinopathy, a condition that can harm your vision, by using tiny particles to help repair the eye's damaged blood vessels and nerves, with the hope of preventing further vision loss and improving eye health.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10723000 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel therapy for diabetic retinopathy (DR), a condition that can lead to severe vision loss. The approach focuses on using extracellular vesicles to target and repair the damaged retinal neurovascular unit, which is affected by diabetes. By delivering therapeutic agents directly to areas of vascular dysfunction in the retina, the goal is to prevent further visual impairment and improve overall eye health. Patients will be monitored for changes in their retinal condition and visual function throughout the treatment process.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, particularly those in the early stages of the disease.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced diabetic retinopathy who have already experienced significant vision loss may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option that helps preserve vision in patients with diabetic retinopathy.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using targeted therapies for retinal conditions, suggesting that this approach may be effective, though it remains a novel application in this specific context.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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 →

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.