Inhibition Of Specific NOX Isoforms As A New Treatment For Hypertensive And Diabetic Retinopathy
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$855,172.00
Summary
Almost all people with diabetes will develop some retinal disease (diabetic retinopathy, DR) and vision loss. Unfortunately, current treatments target the late stages of DR, do not prevent disease progression and can be damaging. This project will uncover the role of a fundamental process that occurs in DR, called oxidative stress. We will evaluate a major cause of oxidative stress called NOX, which exists in various forms. Animal models of diabetes in which NOXes have been manipulated as well a
The Role Of Microglia In Early Diabetic Retinopathy
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$665,582.00
Summary
Diabetic retinopathy is one of the most feared complications of diabetes. This project will examine the role that retinal immune cells called microglia have in causing early changes in the vasculature. We will examine whether diabetes changes the way neurons communicate with blood vessels, opening up a possible treatment target that could prevent the progression to more advanced disease.
Harnessing Anticalin Technology As A Multi-targeted Treament Approach For Vision Loss
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$627,273.00
Summary
Diabetes is a leading cause of vision loss and blindness worldwide and is caused by two factors called VEGF and Ang2, which damage blood vessels. Current treatments only block VEGF and many patients do not respond and suffer irreversible damage to sight. We have used ground-breaking anticalin technology to make a new drug (PRS-AUS1) that blocks both VEGF and Ang2. Studies will be performed in animal models and move to patients where we expect improved outcomes compared to current treatments.