Using stem cells to restore corneal function

Mesenchymal Stem Cells can Restore and Maintain Corneal Endothelial Function

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO HEALTH SCIS CTR · NIH-11140570

This study is exploring how special cells from your body can be turned into eye cells that help with vision, aiming to find a new way to treat people with cornea problems and help them see better again.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO HEALTH SCIS CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ALBUQUERQUE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11140570 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be transformed into corneal endothelial cells (CECs) to treat diseases affecting the cornea. The study will evaluate different sources of MSCs, including those from bone marrow and adipose tissue, and assess their ability to regenerate corneal cells in laboratory and animal models. By understanding the differentiation process and the cells' integration with the cornea, the research aims to develop a new treatment that could restore vision in patients with corneal endothelial dysfunction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have corneal endothelial diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to corneal endothelial dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option for patients suffering from corneal endothelial diseases, potentially restoring their vision.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using stem cells for regenerative therapies, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

ALBUQUERQUE, 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.