Investigating how a protein deficiency affects kidney function in Alport Syndrome
The role of PLIN5 deficiency in podocyte lipotoxicity and progression of Alport Syndrome
This study is looking at how a lack of a protein called PLIN5 can cause harmful fat buildup in kidney cells for people with Alport Syndrome, with the hope that understanding this process will help find better treatments for managing the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11003794 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on Alport Syndrome, a genetic condition that affects kidney function due to mutations in collagen type IV. The study aims to understand how a deficiency in the protein PLIN5 leads to harmful lipid accumulation in kidney cells called podocytes, which are essential for filtering blood. By using advanced imaging techniques and mouse models, researchers will explore the mechanisms behind this lipotoxicity and its impact on kidney health. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatment strategies for managing Alport Syndrome.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alport Syndrome or related hereditary nephritis conditions.
Not a fit: Patients without Alport Syndrome or those with unrelated kidney diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches that improve kidney function and overall health for patients with Alport Syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding lipid metabolism in kidney diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Coral Gables, United States
- University of Miami School of Medicine — Coral Gables, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Jinju — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Kim, Jinju
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.