Targeted kidney imaging probes for clearer kidney diagnosis
Rationally Designed, Target-specific Imaging Probes for Nephro-urology Diagnoses
New targeted imaging molecules that map kidney filtering and tubular protein handling for people with kidney disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11308741 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project builds tiny, kidney-directed imaging probes that carry a small radioactive tag so doctors can visualize specific kidney functions. The probes are made by fusing parts of blood proteins so each probe binds particular kidney receptors and follows a guided path through the glomerulus and proximal tubule. Researchers will use these probes with radionuclide imaging to measure filtration, tubular reuptake, glomerular density, and early damage to the filtration barrier. The work combines laboratory development and imaging tests with the aim of moving toward clinical use.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with suspected or known kidney disease—such as glomerular disorders, proteinuria, or unexplained declines in kidney function—would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: Healthy people without kidney problems or individuals who cannot undergo radionuclide imaging (for example, pregnant people) may not benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, these probes could allow earlier and more precise detection of kidney dysfunction and help guide treatment choices.
How similar studies have performed: Early proof-of-concept studies show promise, but targeted radionuclide probes for detailed kidney function mapping are still relatively new and not yet standard in clinical care.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jin, Jing — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Jin, Jing
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.