How kidney cell damage relates to aging

The Intersection of Podocyte Disease and Aging

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-11081020

This study is looking at how damage to special kidney cells called podocytes can lead to kidney problems as we get older, and it aims to find new ways to help prevent or treat kidney disease in older adults.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-11081020 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how damage to specific kidney cells, known as podocytes, contributes to kidney disease as people age. It focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind podocyte injury and how this injury may accelerate aging in the kidneys. By studying both animal models and young patients with kidney conditions, the research aims to uncover new insights into the relationship between kidney health and aging. The ultimate goal is to identify new ways to prevent or treat kidney disease in older adults.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those over 65 years of age, who are at risk for or suffering from chronic kidney disease.

Not a fit: Patients under 21 years old or those without any kidney disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve kidney health and quality of life for older patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding kidney cell damage and aging, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, 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 2026-06-09 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.