Investigating kidney cells that can regenerate and repair tissue
Official title: The Regenerative Potential of Aqp2+ Progenitor Cells
Funded at Albany Medical College · NIH-11092911 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special kidney cells that could help heal and regenerate kidney tissue, and it aims to find out how these cells work so that we can better treat kidney problems in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albany Medical College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albany, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $489,533 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK136554-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092911 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults with kidney conditions or injuries who are interested in potential regenerative therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-renal conditions or those who do not have any kidney-related issues may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on identifying and understanding a specific type of kidney progenitor cell known as Aqp2+ cells, which have the potential to regenerate kidney tissue. The researchers aim to demonstrate the capabilities of these cells in self-renewal, clonogenicity, and multipotency, which are essential for tissue maintenance and repair after injury. By isolating these cells and studying their functions, the research seeks to uncover their therapeutic potential for treating kidney-related conditions. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how these cells contribute to kidney health and recovery.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance kidney regeneration and repair, improving outcomes for patients with kidney injuries or diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in the regenerative capabilities of kidney progenitor cells, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in kidney treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Albany Medical College
Albany, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Wenzheng — Albany Medical College
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Wenzheng
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.