How kidney damage develops in sickle cell disease
Official title: Renal endothelium and the development of chronic kidney disease in sickle cell disorders
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11013900 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how sickle cell disease can lead to kidney problems by exploring the role of a specific protein, and it aims to find new ways to help protect the kidneys of people with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $628,139 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK132145-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11013900 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with sickle cell disease and are experiencing kidney-related issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without sickle cell disease or those with advanced chronic kidney disease unrelated to sickle cell disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind chronic kidney disease (CKD) in individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD). It focuses on how chronic hemolysis, a condition where red blood cells break down prematurely, contributes to kidney damage. The study aims to understand the role of endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR) in maintaining kidney health and how its loss may lead to CKD. By using advanced imaging techniques and animal models, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets for preventing kidney deterioration in SCD patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or slow the progression of kidney disease in patients with sickle cell disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding kidney complications in sickle cell disease, but this specific mechanistic approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ghosh, Samit — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Ghosh, Samit
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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.