How growth‑factor signals change kidney renin and blood‑vessel cells in infants
Project 2: Defining how the TGF- /FGF2 axis alters the fate of renin producing and vascular smooth muscle cells under conditions that threaten homoeostasis in infancy
This work looks at whether two growth signals (TGF‑β and FGF‑2) change how kidney cells that control salt balance and blood pressure behave in infants with salt‑wasting kidney problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11178656 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a parent's perspective, researchers are examining how the signals TGF‑β and FGF‑2 interact with angiotensin to influence renin‑producing cells and vascular smooth muscle cells that help regulate blood pressure and salt balance in babies. They will use laboratory models that mimic the low blood pressure, low salt, or medication exposures infants with salt‑wasting conditions can face, and study cellular changes in growth, hormone release, and vessel structure. The work combines molecular and cellular experiments and preclinical models to trace how these growth factors shift cell identity and function under stress. Findings aim to reveal mechanisms that could guide safer treatment approaches for young children at risk of poor kidney perfusion and growth problems.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Infants and young children with salt‑wasting renal conditions or those experiencing chronic low blood pressure or salt loss (including those exposed to ACE inhibitors or ARBs) would be the most relevant group.
Not a fit: Children without kidney salt‑wasting problems or adults with unrelated conditions are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this specific work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could point to new ways to protect infant kidneys, preserve blood flow, and improve growth in children with salt‑wasting kidney disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory studies, including preliminary data from the team, suggest these pathways matter, but translating this into treatments for infants remains early and unproven.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ray, Patricio E. — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Ray, Patricio E.
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.