Creating replacement kidney tissue using engineered human cells
Engineering induction and assembly of human kidney tissue
This study is working on creating new kidney tissue using your own stem cells to help build the tiny structures that filter your blood, which could be a big step forward in treating kidney diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11121769 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing methods to induce and assemble human kidney tissue, specifically targeting the formation of nephrons, which are essential for kidney function. By utilizing human autologous stem cells and advanced bioprinting techniques, the project aims to recreate the complex structures of the kidney, including the connections necessary for urine production. The researchers will explore how the mechanical environment influences nephron formation and how to effectively fuse these structures with the ureteric epithelium. This innovative approach could lead to significant advancements in regenerative medicine for kidney diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic kidney disease or those who may require kidney replacement therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with acute kidney injury or those who do not have chronic kidney conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option for patients with chronic kidney disease by enabling the creation of functional kidney tissue.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in the field of organoid development and tissue engineering, indicating that this approach has the potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hughes, Alex — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Hughes, Alex
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.