Investigating how certain kidney cells can be targeted to prevent chronic kidney disease after acute injury

Targeting Renal Tubular Epithelial Progenitors in AKI to CKD transition

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-10866374

This study is looking at special kidney cells that could help heal your kidneys after an injury, and it aims to find new ways to make these cells work better so that you can avoid long-term kidney problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10866374 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how specific kidney cells, known as Sox9-progenitors, can be targeted to improve kidney repair after acute kidney injury (AKI). The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that lead to the dysfunction of these cells, particularly how oxidative stress and a process called ferroptosis contribute to their failure. By identifying new therapeutic strategies to enhance the regenerative capacity of these cells, the research seeks to prevent the progression from AKI to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Patients may benefit from potential new treatments that could improve kidney function and reduce the risk of CKD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced acute kidney injury and are at risk of developing chronic kidney disease.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic kidney disease not related to acute kidney injury may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance kidney repair and prevent the progression to chronic kidney disease.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting cellular mechanisms for kidney repair, but this specific approach focusing on Sox9-progenitors and ferroptosis is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Candidate Disease Gene
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.