How cells form and use tiny hair-like structures called cilia
Molecular Mechanisms Regulating Epithelial Cell Apical Polarity and Ciliogenesis
This research explores how tiny hair-like structures on cells, called cilia, form and function, especially in the kidneys, to better understand genetic kidney diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11124218 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Cilia are tiny sensory parts on most cells that are vital for many body signals. When cilia don't form or work correctly, it leads to genetic conditions called ciliopathies, which can affect many organs, especially the kidneys. This work aims to uncover the exact steps and molecules involved in building these cilia in kidney cells. By understanding these processes, we hope to learn why cilia defects cause kidney problems like cysts and loss of function. We are particularly interested in a molecule called Rab19 and how it helps coordinate cilia formation and cell organization.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with genetic kidney diseases like ciliopathies or polycystic kidney disease, or those with a family history of such conditions, might eventually benefit from this fundamental research.
Not a fit: Patients with kidney conditions not related to cilia defects or genetic causes may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could lead to a deeper understanding of the root causes of ciliopathies and polycystic kidney disease, potentially paving the way for new treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of Rab19 in apical cilia formation in polarized renal epithelia is being explored, general research into cilia and their role in disease has been ongoing, with some successes in identifying genetic links.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Prekeris, Rytis — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Prekeris, Rytis
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.