NIH-funded research Career grant

Understanding how a specific protein affects kidney cyst formation in a genetic disease.

Official title: Unraveling the Ciliary Driver of Polycystic Kidney Disease

Funded at Emory University · NIH-10949899 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a protein called ARL13B might play a role in the development of kidney cysts in people with polycystic kidney disease (PKD), using a special mouse model to better understand how it works and how it interacts with other proteins.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2024
Project endJuly 31, 2029
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$142,902
NIH project number1K01DK140605-01
Project IDNIH-10949899 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease.

Less likely to help

Patients with kidney diseases unrelated to polycystic kidney disease may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a genetic condition that leads to kidney failure. The study aims to investigate the role of a protein called ARL13B, which is located in a cellular structure known as the primary cilium, in the development of kidney cysts. By using a novel genetic mouse model, the researchers will explore how ARL13B interacts with other proteins that may contribute to cyst formation. This work involves biochemical and genetic techniques to identify critical interactions and mechanisms involved in the disease process.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and potential treatments for patients suffering from polycystic kidney disease.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of ciliary proteins in kidney diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Emory University
    Atlanta, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Van Sciver, Robert E — Emory University
  • Study coordinator: Van Sciver, Robert E

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.