Investigating genetic factors in kidney disease among African Americans
Official title: Using transcriptomics and ex vivo organotypic models to discover mechanisms of APOL1-associated podocytopathies
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-10983335 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain changes in a gene called APOL1 might affect kidney health in African American patients with chronic kidney disease, using special lab models to find new ways to help treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | January 18, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $130,741 |
| NIH project number | 5K01DK128304-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10983335 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are African American individuals who may be at risk for chronic kidney disease due to genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a genetic predisposition related to the APOL1 gene may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how specific genetic variations in the APOL1 gene contribute to chronic kidney disease (CKD) in African American patients. By utilizing advanced organotypic kidney models derived from human stem cells, the study aims to explore the molecular mechanisms linking these genetic variants to kidney dysfunction. The approach combines bioinformatics analysis of patient data with experimental models to identify potential therapeutic targets. This innovative methodology seeks to provide insights into the role of APOL1 in both health and disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for chronic kidney disease in African American patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic contributions to kidney disease, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gonzalez-Vicente, Agustin — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Gonzalez-Vicente, Agustin
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.