NIH-funded research Career grant

Investigating how mutations in a specific gene affect kidney development

Official title: Wilms tumor 1 (Wt1) mutation reveals mechanisms of cell lineage crosstalk in the developing kidney

Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-10841677 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how changes in a specific gene called Wt1 affect the way kidney cells work together during development, which could help us understand kidney formation and problems that might arise, and it's designed for researchers who want to learn more about this process.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUt Southwestern Medical Center
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Dallas, United States)
Project startAugust 1, 2022
Project endMay 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$166,618
NIH project number5K08DK131258-03
Project IDNIH-10841677 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic mutations affecting kidney development, particularly those related to Wilms tumor.

Less likely to help

Patients without genetic mutations impacting kidney development or those with fully developed kidneys may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms that regulate kidney development, particularly how mutations in the Wilms tumor 1 (Wt1) gene influence interactions between different cell types in the developing kidney. The project involves detailed training and mentorship for the investigator, who will employ advanced techniques in bioinformatics and in-vitro studies to explore how Wt1 mutations affect nephron progenitor cells and their communication with surrounding stromal cells. By examining these cellular interactions, the research aims to uncover the underlying processes that contribute to kidney formation and potential abnormalities.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into kidney development and potential therapeutic strategies for kidney-related disorders.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding kidney development through genetic studies, making this approach promising yet still advancing the field.

Where this research is happening

  • Ut Southwestern Medical Center
    Dallas, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Drake, Keri Anne — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
  • Study coordinator: Drake, Keri Anne

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.