Understanding how a specific protein affects kidney cell health
Official title: Elucidating the role of cyclin G-associated kinase as a regulator of podocyte autophagy
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11069009 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called GAK helps keep important kidney cells healthy, and it’s for people interested in finding new treatments for chronic kidney disease by understanding what happens when GAK is missing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $34,522 |
| NIH project number | 1F30DK142452-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11069009 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic kidney disease or those at risk of developing kidney-related issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute kidney injury or those without chronic kidney disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of cyclin G-associated kinase (GAK) in maintaining the health of specialized kidney cells called podocytes, which are crucial for kidney function. Using a genetically modified mouse model, the study aims to explore how the absence of GAK leads to podocyte damage and kidney failure. The researchers will measure the process of autophagy, which is essential for cellular maintenance, to understand how GAK influences this process. By uncovering these mechanisms, the research seeks to identify potential new therapies for chronic kidney disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve kidney health and function for patients with chronic kidney disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding podocyte function and repair mechanisms, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bunda, Patricia — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Bunda, Patricia
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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.