Protecting Kidney Cells in FSGS
Molecular mechanisms of podocyte injury in FSGS
This research looks for new ways to protect important kidney cells from damage in a condition called FSGS, which can lead to kidney failure.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11142958 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Chronic kidney diseases, including Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), affect millions and can lead to kidney failure. A major problem in FSGS is the damage and loss of special kidney filter cells called podocytes, for which there are currently no approved treatments. This research explores the BRAF signaling pathway, which appears to play a role in podocyte injury. We are particularly interested in a molecule named GDC-0879, which has shown promise in protecting podocytes from damage in lab settings and in mice. Our goal is to deeply understand how this molecule works and whether it could be developed into a new therapy for FSGS.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients diagnosed with Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) who are experiencing kidney cell damage may be interested in this research.
Not a fit: Patients without FSGS or similar chronic kidney diseases involving podocyte injury would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to the first FDA-approved treatment to prevent the loss of kidney cells in FSGS, potentially slowing or stopping the progression to kidney failure.
How similar studies have performed: Early findings show that the molecule GDC-0879 can protect kidney cells from injury in laboratory experiments and in animal models, suggesting a promising new direction.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Greka, Anna — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Greka, Anna
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.