Reducing CMV reactivation in kidney transplant patients

Mitigating IRI-induced CMV reactivation by targeting endothelial stress responses

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11222455

This study is looking at ways to stop the cytomegalovirus from coming back in people who have had a kidney transplant, by understanding how certain injuries during the transplant process can trigger the virus, and it aims to find new treatments that can help improve kidney health and reduce infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11222455 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how to prevent the reactivation of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in kidney transplant recipients, a common and serious complication. The team will explore the role of ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) in triggering CMV reactivation and aim to identify specific cellular and molecular targets to mitigate this risk. By focusing on endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, the researchers hope to develop targeted therapies that improve transplant outcomes. The approach includes manipulating key proteins involved in these stress responses to enhance kidney function and reduce viral infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are kidney transplant recipients who are at risk for CMV reactivation.

Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone kidney transplantation or those without a history of CMV infection may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved kidney transplant outcomes and reduced morbidity associated with CMV infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting cellular stress responses to improve transplant outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.