Improving kidney transplant success by enhancing cell protection during storage
Official title: Protection of donor kidney and transplanted graft function by modulating Na/K ATPase activity
Funded at University of South Florida · NIH-11063102 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new method to help keep donor kidneys healthy during transplants, which could make a big difference for patients getting a kidney transplant, especially if the kidneys are not in perfect shape.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $652,495 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK138092-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11063102 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with end-stage kidney disease who are awaiting a transplant.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have already received a kidney transplant or those with non-kidney-related health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new technique called improved Synchronization Modulation Electric Field (i-SMEF) that aims to protect donor kidneys during transplantation. By controlling the activity of the Na/K pump and generating ATP, the i-SMEF may help repair injured kidney cells and improve their function. The study will test this approach in various models, including cultured cells and animal models, to see if it can enhance the viability of kidneys that might otherwise be considered marginal for transplantation. If successful, this could lead to better outcomes for patients receiving kidney transplants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the success rates of kidney transplants and expand the availability of donor organs.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise with similar techniques in protecting organ function, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Florida
Tampa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Ruisheng — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Liu, Ruisheng
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.