Genetic tweaks linked to kidney problems in sickle cell disease
Official title: Genetic Modifiers of AKI in SCA
Funded at University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-11354041 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A small, patient-focused project will look at how specific genetic factors may raise the risk of kidney injury in people with sickle cell disease, and whether a computer model can predict this risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $253,395 |
| NIH project number | 1R03HL185270-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11354041 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People with sickle cell disease (children or adults) who have or are at risk for acute kidney injury.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without AKI risk or without access to hospital data used by the model may see limited direct benefit.
What this research studies
This project examines how certain gene variants, including APOL1, HMOX1, BCL11A, and alpha thalassemia, relate to acute kidney injury in people with sickle cell disease. Researchers will use a well-characterized group of children and adults with SCD to explore these genetic factors and AKI outcomes. They will also develop a machine learning tool that blends genetic data with electronic health record information to forecast AKI risk during hospitalization. The goal is to better identify high-risk patients and inform future preventive strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the project could help clinicians identify SCD patients at higher risk for AKI and tailor monitoring or interventions accordingly.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has linked APOL1 and other genes to kidney disease risk in SCD, with emerging use of machine learning to predict AKI in hospital settings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zahr, Rima — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Zahr, Rima
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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.