Using special nanoparticles to deliver protective drugs to eye cells affected by glaucoma
Official title: Development of Reconstituted High-Density Lipoprotein Nanoparticles for Targeted Delivery of Neuroprotective Agents to Retinal Ganglion Cells
Funded at University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr · NIH-11082963 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to deliver a safe eye medication directly to the cells that help you see, aiming to better protect your vision if you have glaucoma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Worth, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $36,456 |
| NIH project number | 5F31EY035916-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11082963 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glaucoma, particularly those experiencing neurodegeneration of retinal ganglion cells.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have glaucoma or those with advanced stages of the disease where RGCs are irreversibly damaged may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing reconstituted high-density lipoprotein (rHDL) nanoparticles to deliver neuroprotective agents specifically to retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in patients with glaucoma. By encapsulating the FDA-approved drug macitentan within these nanoparticles, the study aims to enhance the drug's delivery to RGCs, which are crucial for vision and often damaged in glaucoma. The approach utilizes the natural binding properties of rHDL nanoparticles to target RGCs, potentially improving treatment outcomes for patients suffering from this condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for glaucoma that not only lower eye pressure but also protect against vision loss.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using targeted delivery systems for neuroprotective agents, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr
Fort Worth, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Petty, Roland Max — University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Petty, Roland Max
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.