Investigating the link between silica exposure and chronic kidney disease
Silica Nephropathy and Chronic Kidney Disease of Unknown Etiology
This study is looking into whether breathing in tiny particles from burning sugarcane and rice could be linked to kidney problems, especially in areas where many people have chronic kidney disease, and it aims to understand how these particles might harm the kidneys.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10682599 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the potential connection between exposure to amorphous silica, particularly from burning sugarcane and rice, and the development of chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology (CKDu). The study examines how silica particles in the air may contribute to kidney damage, particularly in regions experiencing high rates of CKDu. By analyzing human biopsies and conducting experiments on animal models, the research aims to identify the mechanisms by which silica exposure leads to chronic interstitial nephritis and other kidney-related issues.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in regions with high exposure to silica from agricultural burning and those diagnosed with chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology.
Not a fit: Patients with chronic kidney disease due to known causes unrelated to environmental exposure may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and prevention strategies for chronic kidney disease linked to environmental factors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a correlation between silica exposure and chronic kidney disease, suggesting that this investigation builds on existing findings rather than being entirely novel.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johnson, Richard Joseph — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Johnson, Richard Joseph
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 below.