Using urine-derived cells to regenerate eye cells for treating macular degeneration
Regeneration of human RPE cells from autologous urine-derived iPS cells
['FUNDING_R21'] · WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11010334
This study is exploring a new way to create eye cells from urine to help treat age-related macular degeneration, aiming to find a safer and more ethical option for people with this condition.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11010334 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a method to regenerate retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells from urine-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to treat age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The approach involves reprogramming cells from urine into iPSCs, which are then differentiated into functional RPE cells. This method aims to provide a less immunogenic and ethically controversial alternative to traditional stem cell therapies. By optimizing the generation of these cells, the research seeks to overcome current barriers in clinical applications for AMD treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing advanced age-related macular degeneration.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of vision impairment unrelated to age-related macular degeneration may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that restore vision in patients suffering from age-related macular degeneration.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using iPSCs for regenerative therapies, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES
- WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES — WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ZHANG, YUANYUAN NO — WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: ZHANG, YUANYUAN NO
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.
Conditions: age related macular disease