Investigating how GPR39 affects kidney function
Official title: Uncovering the Role of GPR39 in the kidney
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11109378 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special receptor in the kidneys called GPR39 to see how it helps the kidneys manage water, which could lead to better understanding and treatments for kidney health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | May 20, 2024 |
| Project end | May 19, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $49,538 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DK137460-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11109378 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with kidney disorders or those experiencing issues related to water balance in the body.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no kidney issues or those not affected by water regulation problems may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the GPR39 receptor in the kidneys, particularly how it influences water reabsorption. Researchers will explore how GPR39 interacts with specific proteins in kidney cells, using both laboratory experiments and synthetic compounds to activate the receptor. By studying these mechanisms, the research aims to clarify the physiological functions of GPR39 in renal health and disease, which could lead to new insights into kidney function and potential treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for kidney-related conditions by enhancing our understanding of water regulation in the body.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding GPCRs in other organs, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights in the kidney as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kui, Mackenzie — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Kui, Mackenzie
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Targeting hidden brain injuries in iTTP to improve long-term brain health
A researcher aims to find out how silent brain injuries in people with immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) happen, how they affect thinking and stroke risk, and how to prevent them.
-
Accelerated flap coverage for severe leg injuries: earlier reconstruction vs standard timing
This study tests whether doing early flap coverage after a severe leg injury lowers infection risk and improves healing for patients with open wounds and bone injury.
-
Placebo-controlled shunting for iNPH: does the surgery help with walking and balance?
A doctor-led trial at Johns Hopkins will test whether a shunt surgery improves walking and balance in older adults with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus.
-
Omalizumab for COPD patients with allergen sensitization and exposure
A multicenter trial will test whether adding omalizumab helps people with COPD who are allergic to common indoor allergens and are exposed to them.
-
Johns Hopkins Total Worker Health Center focusing on mental health
A nationwide center at Johns Hopkins is working to improve mental health and well-being among workers by studying workplace health strategies and translating findings into practical tools.
-
Role of fat droplets in liver fat and inflammatory signals in NAFLD
A study at Johns Hopkins will explore how fat droplets in the liver influence molecules that drive inflammation and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adults.
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.