Targeting calcineurin regulators for better diagnostics and treatments for nephrotic syndrome
REGULATORS OF CALCINEURIN PATHWAYS AS DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC TARGETS FOR NEPHROTIC SYNDROME
This work looks at whether proteins that control calcineurin can be used to make better tests and more precise treatments for people with nephrotic syndrome.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11248746 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team found changes in RCAN genes in some people with nephrotic syndrome and saw that those changes make cells overactive for calcineurin and more likely to die. In lab models they used drugs that block calcineurin to reverse those harmful effects, and they will use genetic tools (including CRISPR) and patient-derived samples to map the pathways involved. The researchers will search for non-invasive biomarkers (like blood or urine markers) that indicate who has calcineurin-driven disease and who might respond to calcineurin-targeted treatments. Their goal is to connect genetic findings to real tests and treatment options that could be used in clinics.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults or children with nephrotic syndrome—especially those with steroid-resistant disease or suspected genetic causes, including suspected RCAN gene changes—are the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: People whose kidney disease is not driven by calcineurin signaling or who do not have RCAN-related abnormalities may not receive direct benefit from these specific findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could produce tests to identify patients who will benefit from calcineurin-targeting drugs and lead to more targeted therapies that reduce kidney damage.
How similar studies have performed: Calcineurin inhibitors are already used for some glomerular diseases but help only a portion of patients, and using genetic findings to guide this approach is relatively new with promising preclinical support.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gbadegesin, Rasheed Adebayo — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Gbadegesin, Rasheed Adebayo
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.