NCT01496625 · National Eye Institute (NEI)
National Eye Institute Biorepository for Retinal Diseases
What this study is about
Background: \- To understand diseases of the retina and the eye, information is needed about people with and without such diseases. Researchers want to study these people and follow them over time. They also want to study body tissues and blood to understand the nature of eye disease.
View original scientific description
Background: \- To understand diseases of the retina and the eye, information is needed about people with and without such diseases. Researchers want to study these people and follow them over time. They also want to study body tissues and blood to understand the nature of eye disease. Studying genes, cells, and tissues may help them understand why some people get eye problems and others do not, or why some people respond to treatment while others do not. Researchers want to collect physical samples and personal data to develop a National Eye Institute database. Objectives: \- To collect health information and blood and tissue samples from people with and without eye diseases, to be used in research studies. Eligibility: * Individuals at least 2 years of age with different types of eye disease. * Healthy volunteers with no history of eye disease. Design: * Participants may be recruited from National Eye Institute studies or may be referred from other sources. * Participants will be screened with a physical exam and medical history. They will also have a full eye exam. Questions will be asked about family medical history, especially about eye disease. * Blood samples will be collected. Other samples, such as saliva, tears, hair, stool, and urine, may be collected as needed. Adult participants may also provide a skin sample. * Tissue or fluid from eye collected as part of eye care or treatment may also be added to the database. * No treatment will be provided as part of this study.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Participants will be eligible if they:
- Have the ability to understand and sign an informed consent or have a parent/legal guardian to do so if they are minor children.
- Manifest diagnosed or undiagnosed retinal disease(s), or could serve as an unaffected control suitable for comparison to participants with various retinal diseases, particularly AMD and diabetic retinopathy (taking into account matching factors such as age and past ocular history).
Exclusion criteria
- Participants will not be eligible if they:
- Are unable or unwilling to give informed consent that includes collection and study of at least one peripheral blood sample.
- Are unable or unwilling to give informed consent that includes use of NIH medical records and clinical samples for research.
- Have a systemic disease that compromises the ability to provide adequate ophthalmologic examination or treatment.
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 30, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations