How iron metabolism affects immune cells in chronic kidney disease
Official title: Regulation of Macrophage Phenotype by Ferritin Heavy Chain in CKD
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11009533 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called ferritin heavy chain affects immune cells in people with chronic kidney disease, with the goal of finding new ways to slow down kidney damage and possibly reduce the need for dialysis or transplants.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $356,995 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK134402-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009533 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, particularly those experiencing advanced stages of the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute kidney injury or those without chronic kidney disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of ferritin heavy chain in regulating immune cells called macrophages in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The study aims to understand how disruptions in iron metabolism contribute to the progression of CKD and seeks to develop new therapies that target these mechanisms. By examining the relationship between iron distribution and macrophage behavior, the research hopes to identify ways to slow down kidney damage and reduce the need for dialysis or transplants. Patients may be involved in preliminary studies that explore these biological processes and their implications for treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow the progression of chronic kidney disease and improve patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting iron metabolism to improve outcomes in chronic kidney disease, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zarjou, Abolfazl — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Zarjou, Abolfazl
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.