Investigating the role of cilia in kidney disease and other health issues
Nephronophthisis-related ciliopathies and ciliary specialization
This study is looking at tiny hair-like structures on cells called cilia to see how they might be linked to health issues like kidney disease and neurological disorders, using a small worm to help understand how changes in these structures could affect people with these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Piscataway, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10995303 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how cilia, tiny hair-like structures on cells, contribute to various health conditions, including kidney disease and neurological disorders. By studying the genetic mutations that affect cilia, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind ciliary specialization and their role in producing extracellular vesicles. The project utilizes the model organism C. elegans to explore how these cilia can change structure during development and how these changes might relate to human diseases. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the genetic factors that contribute to their conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with ciliopathies, particularly those with cystic kidney disease or related genetic conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to ciliary defects or those over 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for diagnosing and treating ciliopathies, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding ciliary functions and their implications in various diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Piscataway, United States
- Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. — Piscataway, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Barr, Maureen M — Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
- Study coordinator: Barr, Maureen M
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.