Using machine learning to improve diagnosis and prediction of diabetic retinopathy

Distributed approaches to train machine learning models in diabetic retinopathy

NIH-funded research University of North Carolina Charlotte · NIH-10795486

This study is working on smart computer programs that help doctors better spot and predict diabetic retinopathy using special eye scans, all while keeping your personal information safe, so that patients can get earlier and more effective treatment for their eye health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of North Carolina Charlotte NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlotte, United States)
Project IDNIH-10795486 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing advanced machine learning models to enhance the diagnosis and prediction of diabetic retinopathy (DR) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). By employing a distributed approach, the project aims to train these models across multiple institutions without sharing sensitive patient data, thus addressing privacy concerns. The goal is to create robust algorithms that can accurately classify different stages of DR and predict the progression of proliferative diabetic retinopathy. This innovative method seeks to improve early detection and treatment outcomes for patients suffering from this condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy or those at risk of developing this condition.

Not a fit: Patients without diabetic retinopathy or those with unrelated eye conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and timely diagnoses of diabetic retinopathy, potentially preventing severe vision loss in patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using machine learning for medical diagnostics, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Charlotte, 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.