Improving kidney transplant success by targeting the immune system
Official title: Targeting innate immunity for induction of robust renal allograft tolerance
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11074069 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for ways to help people who receive kidney transplants accept their new organ without needing to take strong medications for a long time, by using donor bone marrow to help the body recognize the kidney as its own.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 25, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,074,143 |
| NIH project number | 5U01AI174968-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11074069 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are undergoing kidney transplantation and are willing to participate in innovative treatment approaches.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not candidates for kidney transplantation or those with contraindications to bone marrow transplantation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance the success of kidney transplants by inducing a state of tolerance in the immune system, allowing the body to accept the transplanted organ without the need for long-term immunosuppressive drugs. The approach involves using donor bone marrow transplantation to create a mixed chimerism, which helps the recipient's immune system recognize the transplanted kidney as part of their own body. The study will also explore new agents that can promote this tolerance while minimizing harmful side effects. By understanding the mechanisms behind this process, the research seeks to improve the outcomes of kidney transplants significantly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to kidney transplant recipients living without the need for lifelong immunosuppression, reducing the risk of complications and improving quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in achieving long-term kidney allograft survival through similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this research.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kawai, Tatsuo — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Kawai, Tatsuo
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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.