Blocking a specific enzyme to reduce oxalate levels in patients with primary hyperoxaluria
Official title: Hydroxyproline Dehydrogenase Inhibitors for the Treatment of Primary Hyperoxaluria
Funded at Wake Forest University Health Sciences · NIH-10868923 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people with primary hyperoxaluria by blocking an enzyme that makes oxalate, which could lead to a treatment for those who currently have no options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project start | August 16, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $674,480 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK137305-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10868923 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with primary hyperoxaluria type 2 or type 3.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with primary hyperoxaluria type 1 or those without hyperoxaluria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how inhibiting the enzyme hydroxyproline dehydrogenase (HYPDH) can lower oxalate levels in patients with primary hyperoxaluria (PH). By blocking the breakdown of hydroxyproline, which contributes significantly to oxalate production, the study aims to develop a new treatment for PH2 and PH3 patients who currently have no available therapies. The research utilizes animal models to test the effectiveness of this approach and has shown promising results in preventing oxalate production. If successful, this could lead to a novel therapeutic option for managing this condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option that significantly reduces oxalate levels in patients with primary hyperoxaluria.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in targeting metabolic pathways to reduce harmful metabolites, suggesting this approach may also be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Winston-Salem, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lowther, W Todd — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Lowther, W Todd
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.