How kidney filter cells (podocytes) clear damaged proteins
Mechanisms of ER-Protein Quality Control in Podocytes
This project looks at how kidney filter cells handle misfolded proteins to help people who leak protein in their urine.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11238888 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying the SEL1L-HRD1 protein complex that helps podocytes remove misfolded proteins from the cell's protein-folding compartment (the ER). They use mouse models that lack SEL1L in podocytes to observe how this loss causes proteinuria and alters the filtration barrier. The team combines electron microscopy, molecular and biochemical assays, and tests of autophagy pathways to see how ER-associated degradation and autophagy work together in podocytes. The aim is to map the cellular failures that lead to protein-leaking kidney disease so future treatments can target those steps.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This is preclinical research and does not appear to enroll patients, but its findings will be most relevant to people with proteinuric kidney diseases such as nephrotic syndrome.
Not a fit: Because this is lab-based basic science, it is unlikely to provide immediate treatment options for patients seeking direct therapy right now.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could reveal cellular pathways to prevent or reduce proteinuria and guide development of new kidney-protective treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Prior mouse studies showed that loss of SEL1L in podocytes causes proteinuria and early death, while the proposed link between ER-associated degradation and autophagy in podocytes is a newer area under active study.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Qi, Ling — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Qi, Ling
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.