GSTM1 and sulfur-related metabolism in kidney disease

GSTM1-Transsulfuration metabolic axis in kidney disease: therapeutic target in precision medicine

NIH-funded research University of California-Irvine · NIH-11310767

Looks at how loss of the GSTM1 gene and related sulfur metabolism affect kidney health in people with chronic kidney disease, especially African Americans.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California-Irvine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Irvine, United States)
Project IDNIH-11310767 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This project studies people and laboratory models to understand how absence of the GSTM1 enzyme changes kidney inflammation and damage through the transsulfuration (sulfur) pathway. Researchers will combine human genetic and biomarker data from large cohorts with experiments in cells and animals to trace how GSTM1 loss alters hydrogen sulfide and oxidative stress in the kidney. The team will link these molecular findings back to clinical kidney outcomes to identify targets that could be modified by drugs or nutritional approaches. Results will help decide whether people with GSTM1 deficiency might benefit from tailored therapies to slow kidney decline.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: People with chronic kidney disease, particularly African American patients and those known or suspected to lack the GSTM1 gene, are the most likely candidates to benefit from or be enrolled in related work.

Not a fit: Patients whose kidney disease is unrelated to GSTM1-driven oxidative pathways or who do not have GSTM1 deficiency may be less likely to benefit directly from findings.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: Could lead to tests or treatments that slow kidney damage in people with GSTM1 deficiency by targeting sulfur metabolism and oxidative stress.

How similar studies have performed: Human genetic studies and mouse models have shown that GSTM1 loss links to worse kidney outcomes and increased oxidative stress, but targeted treatments based on this pathway are still largely untested.

Where this research is happening

Irvine, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.