Understanding cell signals that cause organ damage after blood flow problems
Role of NLRP3 signals in ischemia/reperfusion-induced organ injury
This work explores how a specific cell signal, called NLRP3, contributes to kidney damage when blood flow is interrupted and then restored, aiming to find new ways to protect organs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11162324 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
When organs like the kidney experience a sudden loss and then return of blood flow, such as during surgery or transplantation, cells can become damaged. Our bodies have a natural defense system, including a signal called NLRP3, which can sometimes cause too much cell death and worsen this injury. This project looks closely at how NLRP3 signals work within kidney cells and how we might be able to block the harmful parts of this signal. The goal is to prevent cell death and protect the kidney, while still allowing the body to use NLRP3 for other important defenses, like fighting infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for patients who experience acute kidney injury due to conditions like surgery, severe illness, or organ transplantation where blood flow is temporarily disrupted.
Not a fit: Patients without acute kidney injury related to ischemia/reperfusion events would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new, targeted treatments that protect kidneys and other organs from damage caused by blood flow interruptions, improving outcomes for hospitalized patients and transplant recipients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this lab and others has shown that broadly blocking NLRP3 can prevent experimental kidney injury caused by blood flow issues.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- Scripps Research Institute, the — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mckay, Dianne B — Scripps Research Institute, the
- Study coordinator: Mckay, Dianne B
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.