Protecting kidneys from damage during surgery

Novel mitochondrial protective properties of annexin A1

['FUNDING_R01'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11162378

This research explores a new way to protect kidneys from damage that can happen during surgery, aiming to help patients recover better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11162378 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Many patients undergoing major surgeries, especially those involving blood flow interruption to the kidneys, face a risk of acute kidney injury (AKI). Currently, there are no specific treatments to prevent or treat this type of kidney damage, which can lead to serious health problems. Our team is developing a new peptide, similar to a natural body protein called annexin A1, that may shield kidney cells from stress. By focusing on protecting the energy-producing parts of kidney cells, called mitochondria, we hope to prevent AKI and improve patient outcomes after surgery.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Patients who are scheduled for surgeries that involve temporarily stopping blood flow to the kidneys, such as vascular or transplant operations, could potentially benefit from this future therapy.

Not a fit: Patients whose kidney injury is not related to surgical procedures or mitochondrial stress may not receive direct benefit from this specific approach.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new treatment that prevents kidney damage in patients undergoing surgery, reducing complications and improving recovery.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data in mice has shown that a similar peptide can reduce ischemic kidney injury, suggesting promise for this novel therapeutic approach.

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.