Investigating how dynein affects kidney function in diabetes
Official title: Targeting dynein-mediated trafficking in diabetic podocytopathy
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-11082424 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called dynein affects kidney cells in people with diabetes, with the goal of finding new ways to prevent kidney damage and improve treatments for diabetic nephropathy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $412,308 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK136563-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11082424 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with diabetes who are at risk of developing diabetic nephropathy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without diabetes or those who do not have any kidney-related complications may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on diabetic nephropathy, a common kidney disease affecting many individuals with diabetes. It aims to understand how dynein, a motor protein, contributes to the mismanagement of proteins in kidney cells called podocytes, which are crucial for filtering blood. By exploring the mechanisms behind this mismanagement, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could prevent the progression of kidney damage rather than just slowing it down. Patients may benefit from new treatments that address the root causes of kidney issues related to diabetes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that prevent kidney damage in diabetic patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting cellular mechanisms in diabetic nephropathy, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sun, Hua — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Sun, Hua
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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.