Stopping oxalate buildup in primary hyperoxaluria
Hydroxyproline Dehydrogenase Inhibitors for the Treatment of Primary Hyperoxaluria
This research explores a new medicine to help patients with specific types of primary hyperoxaluria (PH2 and PH3) by reducing a substance that causes kidney stones.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11171366 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Hydroxyproline, a component found in collagen within our bodies and in the meat we eat, can be broken down into oxalate, which contributes to the formation of kidney stones. For patients with primary hyperoxaluria (PH), this conversion is a significant source of oxalate. This project aims to find a drug that blocks an enzyme called hydroxyproline dehydrogenase (HYPDH), which is the first step in this oxalate-producing pathway. By stopping HYPDH, we hope to significantly lower oxalate levels, especially for PH2 and PH3 patients who currently have no specific treatments. Early findings suggest that blocking HYPDH is safe and effective in animal models, offering a promising new approach.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is specifically focused on developing treatments for patients diagnosed with Primary Hyperoxaluria types 2 and 3 (PH2 and PH3).
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of hyperoxaluria or kidney stone conditions not related to hydroxyproline metabolism may not directly benefit from this specific approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer the first specific therapy for PH2 and PH3 patients, potentially preventing severe kidney damage and improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Early studies in animal models have shown promising results, indicating that blocking this pathway can reduce oxalate production without harmful side effects.
Where this research is happening
Winston-Salem, United States
- Wake Forest University Health Sciences — Winston-Salem, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lowther, W Todd — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Lowther, W Todd
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.