NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Investigating how a kidney protein helps protect against sepsis

Official title: The protective role of kidney-derived Tamm Horsfall protein (Uromodulin) in sepsis

Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10900656 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a protein made by the kidneys, called Tamm Horsfall Protein, might help protect the body during severe infections like sepsis, especially for people who also have kidney problems.

More Sepsis research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project startAugust 15, 2023
Project endJuly 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$239,040
NIH project number5R00DK127216-04
Project IDNIH-10900656 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients who are experiencing sepsis, particularly those with or at risk for acute kidney injury.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have sepsis or acute kidney injury may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of Tamm Horsfall Protein (THP), a protein produced by the kidneys, in protecting the body during sepsis, a severe infection response. The study aims to explore how THP may enhance immune function and improve outcomes for patients experiencing acute kidney injury (AKI) in the context of sepsis. By examining both human and animal models, the researchers will investigate the mechanisms through which THP operates and its potential protective effects on other organs during severe infections.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve survival rates and outcomes for patients suffering from sepsis and acute kidney injury.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the protective role of THP in kidney health and immune regulation, suggesting that this approach may be viable.

Where this research is happening

  • Indiana University Indianapolis
    Indianapolis, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Lafavers, Kaice — Indiana University Indianapolis
  • Study coordinator: Lafavers, Kaice

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.