Investigating kidney disease risk linked to specific genetic variants in African Americans

Human iPSC-derived Podocytes to Study APOL1 High-Risk Variants

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · CLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU · NIH-10906647

This study is looking at how specific changes in a gene called APOL1 might lead to kidney problems, especially in African Americans, by using special lab-grown cells to see how these changes affect important kidney cells, which could help find new ways to treat kidney disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10906647 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how certain genetic variants in the APOL1 gene contribute to kidney disease, particularly in the African American population. By using human-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) that have been genetically modified to carry these variants, researchers aim to study the mechanisms that lead to kidney damage. The project will explore how these genetic factors affect podocytes, the cells crucial for kidney filtration, and how their depletion impacts kidney function. This work could provide insights into potential new treatments for chronic kidney disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals of African descent, particularly those with a family history of kidney disease or who carry the APOL1 high-risk variants.

Not a fit: Patients without the APOL1 high-risk variants or those with kidney disease due to other causes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potentially new treatments for chronic kidney disease, particularly for those at higher genetic risk.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding genetic factors in kidney disease can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

CLEVELAND, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.