Kidney Health and Preeclampsia in Pregnancy

Impaired Renal Reserve and Preeclampsia

NIH-funded research Cedars-Sinai Medical Center · NIH-11137650

This research explores how kidney health affects the risk of developing preeclampsia during pregnancy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCedars-Sinai Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-11137650 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

We know that women with existing kidney issues, like a history of kidney injury or having only one kidney, face a higher chance of developing preeclampsia. This project aims to understand why this happens by looking at specific changes in the body. We are using advanced laboratory models to identify key factors that might contribute to preeclampsia when kidney function is already challenged. Our goal is to uncover the precise biological pathways involved in this connection, specifically focusing on a metabolite called L-kynurenine.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Women with a history of kidney conditions, such as prior acute kidney injury, a single kidney, or chronic kidney disease, who are pregnant or considering pregnancy, are the focus of this research.

Not a fit: Patients without a history of kidney impairment or those not experiencing preeclampsia would not directly benefit from this specific line of inquiry.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: This work could lead to new ways to identify women at high risk for preeclampsia and develop better strategies to prevent or treat this serious pregnancy complication.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies in laboratory models have shown that impaired kidney function can lead to preeclampsia-like symptoms, suggesting this approach is promising.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.