Cell-connecting proteins in the kidney
lntegrin binding proteins and the kidney
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION · NIH-11130970
This research tests whether targeting integrin-linked proteins can prevent or reduce kidney scarring in people with chronic kidney disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11130970 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If you have chronic kidney disease, this project looks at proteins that help kidney cells stick to their surroundings and control their internal skeleton, because those processes can lead to scarring. Researchers are using lab and animal models to block a group of integrin-binding proteins (the IPP complex) that bundle actin filaments and transmit damaging signals. Their experiments aim to find ways to stop tubulointerstitial fibrosis, the scarring that drives kidney decline. Successful findings could lead to new medicines or clinical trials that protect or restore kidney function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for future trials would be adults with chronic kidney disease characterized by tubulointerstitial fibrosis who are eligible for interventional studies.
Not a fit: People without chronic kidney disease or whose kidney problems are not driven by tubulointerstitial fibrosis are unlikely to benefit from this line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new therapies that stop or reverse kidney scarring and slow progression of chronic kidney disease.
How similar studies have performed: Related preclinical studies targeting integrin signaling have reduced fibrosis in laboratory and animal models, but few effective human treatments from this approach exist yet.
Where this research is happening
NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES
- VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION — NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ZENT, ROY — VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION
- Study coordinator: ZENT, ROY
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 below.