NCT05079399 · Indiana University
Biomarker of Diabetic Retinopathy
What this study is about
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a complication of diabetes in which blood vessels supplying blood to the back of the eye (retina) are dysfunctional. This can lead to an improper supply of oxygen and nutrients to the retinal tissue, or it may trigger the formation of new blood vessels in response to the oxygen/nutrient deficiency. Ultimately affecting the normal vision.
View original scientific description
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a complication of diabetes in which blood vessels supplying blood to the back of the eye (retina) are dysfunctional. This can lead to an improper supply of oxygen and nutrients to the retinal tissue, or it may trigger the formation of new blood vessels in response to the oxygen/nutrient deficiency. Ultimately affecting the normal vision. There is no known marker that will provide information on the health status of retinal blood vessels. Using highly specialized cells in the blood, this study will try to discover a marker of DR.
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
- Ability to cooperate with imaging procedures.
- Health status: established type 2 diabetes
- No history of panretinal photocoagulation (PRP)
- No history of treatment with intravitreal agents for past 12 months
Exclusion criteria
- Previous or current malignancy
- Acute or chronic infection (HIV, hepatitis B or C, tuberculosis)
- Cerebral vascular accident or cerebral vascular procedure
- Current pregnancy
- History of organ transplantation
- Presence of a graft (to avoid any effect of the graft)
- History of previous vitrectomy
- Subjects with a history of age-related macular degeneration age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma, uveitis, and branched or central vein occlusion.
Where
- Carmel, Indiana
- Indianapolis, Indiana
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 17, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations