Eye implant of insulin cells could change diabetes care

NCT ID NCT02846571

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: Midhat H. Abdulreda Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This early-phase trial tests transplanting insulin-producing cells into the front chamber of the eye in legally blind people with diabetes. The goal is to see if the cells survive and work safely using only eye drops for immune suppression. Only 2 participants are enrolled, so this is a very small first step.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Human pancreatic islet cells
What this could lead to: If successful, this could offer a new way to transplant insulin-producing cells with less systemic side effects, potentially improving blood sugar control.
What could go wrong: This is a very early, tiny trial (only 2 participants) in legally blind patients, so results may not apply to others. Risks include eye complications like cataract or infection.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Diabetes Complications diabetes mellitus type 1 diabetes mellitus type 2 diabetes mellitus

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

DIABETES

Contacts and locations

Locations

Bascom Palmer Eye Institute
RECRUITING

Miami, Florida, 33136, United States
Diabetes Research Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
RECRUITING

Miami, Florida, 33136, United States

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