MicroRNAs that control kidney transplant rejection
Post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression by microRNAs in antibody-mediated rejection
['FUNDING_R01'] · TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON · NIH-11158629
This work looks at tiny RNA molecules in transplanted kidneys to learn how they help cause or prevent antibody-driven rejection.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11158629 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will isolate microRNAs and the specific messenger RNAs they bind to from kidney tissue using a method that captures RNAs attached to the AGO2 protein. They will create a map of which microRNAs target which genes in kidneys affected by chronic antibody-mediated rejection. By comparing injured and non-injured samples and analyzing the affected pathways, the team hopes to find the molecular switches that drive damage or protection. Findings may point to new markers doctors can measure or new targets for therapies to protect transplants.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Kidney transplant recipients who have signs of chronic antibody-mediated rejection or who are undergoing biopsy or sample donation at the transplant center would be the ideal participants.
Not a fit: People with kidney problems not caused by antibody-mediated rejection or those not willing/able to provide tissue samples are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to tests that detect harmful molecular signals early or new treatments that block microRNAs that drive transplant injury.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies linked microRNAs to kidney injury, but using AGO2-based mapping to pair microRNAs with their exact mRNA targets in rejection is a newer, proof-of-principle approach.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: IACOMINI, JOHN J — TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON
- Study coordinator: IACOMINI, JOHN J
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.