Kidney pressure sensor that controls renin and blood pressure
Identification of a mechanosensor in juxtaglomerular cells for the regulation of renin synthesis and secretion
This work looks for the pressure-sensing part inside kidney cells that controls renin and affects blood pressure, which could help people with high blood pressure.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11251591 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team is trying to find the molecular "mechanosensor" inside juxtaglomerular kidney cells that tells them when to make and release renin. They plan to use lab experiments on cells and likely animal models plus molecular and imaging tools to identify proteins that respond to stretch or pressure. The project focuses on how that sensing mechanism links to the renin-angiotensin system that helps set blood pressure. Discovering the sensor could point to ways to correct abnormal renin release in people with blood-pressure problems.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with high blood pressure (hypertension), suspected renin-driven hypertension, or renovascular conditions would be the most relevant group for this work.
Not a fit: People with medical conditions unrelated to blood pressure or the renin-angiotensin system are unlikely to see direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could reveal new targets for medicines that better control renin and treat high blood pressure.
How similar studies have performed: Related research has found mechanosensitive channels in blood vessels, but identifying the exact pressure sensor in juxtaglomerular cells is a novel and not-yet-established goal.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston Medical Center — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wei, Jin — Boston Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Wei, Jin
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.