Investigating the role of HTRA1 in causing kidney disease
Official title: The Serine Protease HTRA1 Antigen: A Gateway to Elucidating Membranous Nephropathy Pathogenesis and the Targeting of Antigen Epitopes
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-11075806 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain antibodies in people with primary membranous nephropathy (a kidney condition) affect the disease and aims to find better ways to diagnose and treat it, using new animal models to learn more about how the disease works.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | July 21, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $174,960 |
| NIH project number | 5K23DK132487-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11075806 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with primary membranous nephropathy or those exhibiting symptoms of nephrotic syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with kidney diseases unrelated to autoimmune mechanisms or those without membranous nephropathy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on primary membranous nephropathy (MN), an autoimmune condition that leads to kidney damage. It aims to understand how autoantibodies against the serine protease HTRA1 contribute to the disease's progression. By identifying specific HTRA1 epitopes targeted by these autoantibodies, the research seeks to improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes for patients with MN. The study will utilize newly developed animal models to explore the mechanisms of disease development and the role of HTRA1 in kidney function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and targeted therapies for patients suffering from membranous nephropathy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding autoimmune mechanisms in kidney diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Al-Rabadi, Laith — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Al-Rabadi, Laith
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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.