Treating kidney disease by targeting the bone marrow
Targeting bone marrow to treat renal disease
This project tests whether targeting immune cells and soluble factors from the bone marrow can help adults with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, including focal segmental glomerulosclerosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11243499 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, the team is exploring whether the bone marrow's immune cells drive idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (NS) and FSGS and looking for specific immune signatures linked to disease. They will analyze patient-derived samples for blood and bone marrow markers such as suPAR and use laboratory and animal models that reflect human disease to trace how those signals affect the kidney. The work combines cellular and molecular assays with preclinical models to identify which bone marrow–derived factors could be blocked or modified. The goal is to find targeted approaches that could avoid broad immunosuppression and lower the chance of disease recurrence.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, especially those with primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis or recurrent disease after transplant, would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People with kidney disease from clearly defined non-immune causes or unrelated conditions are unlikely to benefit from this specific bone marrow–focused approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to targeted treatments that reduce proteinuria and lower the risk of FSGS recurrence, including after kidney transplant.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies found that bone marrow–derived immature myeloid cells can release suPAR and cause proteinuric kidney disease in mice, but moving this into human therapies remains novel.
Where this research is happening
Galveston, United States
- University of Texas Med Br Galveston — Galveston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reiser, Jochen — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Reiser, Jochen
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.