Investigating how kidney cells mature and change in engineered kidney models

Understanding Kidney Endothelial Maturity and Mesenchymal Transition in Vascularized Human Kidney Organoids

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11087459

This study is looking at how certain cells in the kidneys change when they get hurt by medications, using special 3D models to mimic real kidney behavior, which could help us find better ways to treat kidney injuries.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11087459 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how kidney endothelial cells transition into a different cell type during acute kidney injury, particularly due to nephrotoxic drugs. By creating advanced 3D kidney organoids that include endothelial cells, the study aims to replicate the complex interactions that occur in real kidneys. The researchers will use various techniques, such as electron microscopy and immunofluorescence, to observe and analyze these changes in cell behavior and structure. This approach could provide insights into kidney damage and recovery processes, potentially leading to better treatments for kidney injuries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of acute kidney injury, particularly those exposed to nephrotoxic medications.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic kidney disease or those not exposed to nephrotoxic drugs may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from acute kidney injury.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using organoid models to study kidney diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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 acute kidney injury
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.