Investigating how lipoic acid affects autoimmune kidney disease.
Official title: Mechanisms of autoimmune dysregulation in lipoic acid users at risk for NELL1 membranous nephropathy
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11145020 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the dietary supplement lipoic acid might affect people with membranous nephropathy, a kidney disease, by seeing if it triggers immune responses that could lead to complications, so we can better spot and treat those at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | July 26, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $199,578 |
| NIH project number | 5K23DK135855-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11145020 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults who use lipoic acid and have a history of autoimmune conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use lipoic acid or do not have autoimmune conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between lipoic acid, a common dietary supplement, and NELL1 membranous nephropathy, an autoimmune kidney disease that can lead to serious complications like kidney failure. The study aims to understand how lipoic acid may trigger autoimmune responses in susceptible individuals, particularly focusing on the role of specific immune cells and antibodies. By identifying early signs of the disease in patients who use lipoic acid, the research seeks to improve detection and treatment strategies for those at risk. Patients will be monitored for changes in their immune response and kidney function over time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and targeted treatments for patients at risk of developing NELL1 membranous nephropathy.
How similar studies have gone: While there is emerging data on the role of immune responses in membranous nephropathy, this specific investigation into lipoic acid's effects is novel and has not been extensively studied.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Avasare, Rupali — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Avasare, Rupali
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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.