Protecting kidney cells in diabetic kidney disease using signaling molecules

Promoting podocyte protective cGMP signaling in diabetic kidney disease

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · DURHAM VA MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11098485

This study is looking at how certain natural substances can help protect kidney cells from damage caused by diabetes, with the hope of finding new treatments that could improve kidney health for people with diabetic kidney disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDURHAM VA MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11098485 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how specific signaling molecules, known as natriuretic peptides, can protect kidney cells called podocytes from damage in diabetic kidney disease. The study investigates how these peptides stimulate the production of a protective signaling molecule called cGMP in podocytes, which is crucial for maintaining kidney health. By blocking a receptor that degrades these peptides, the research aims to enhance their protective effects and reduce kidney injury. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for diabetic nephropathy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with diabetic kidney disease, particularly those experiencing albuminuria.

Not a fit: Patients without diabetic kidney disease or those with other unrelated kidney conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that protect kidney function in patients with diabetic kidney disease.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results using similar approaches to enhance kidney protection, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.