Developing targeted imaging probes for kidney diagnoses
Official title: Rationally Designed, Target-specific Imaging Probes for Nephro-urology Diagnoses
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11086157 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing new imaging tools that help doctors see how well your kidneys are working by actively tracking their functions, making it easier to understand your kidney health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $521,312 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EB033377-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11086157 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with kidney disorders or those requiring detailed renal function assessments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable kidney function and no history of renal issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating innovative imaging probes specifically designed for kidney function assessment. Unlike traditional imaging methods that rely on passive processes, these probes are engineered to actively map kidney functions such as filtration and protein sorting. The study employs a unique fusion strategy to combine segments of plasma proteins, allowing the probes to interact with specific kidney receptors. This targeted approach aims to enhance the accuracy of renal imaging and provide detailed insights into kidney health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more precise and effective imaging techniques for diagnosing kidney-related conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using targeted imaging approaches for other organs, suggesting potential success for this novel method in kidney imaging.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jin, Jing — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Jin, Jing
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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.