Understanding how a specific protein affects kidney development and disease

Extracellular protease modulation of the cilium transition zone in kidney development and disease

NIH-funded research Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-11001920

This study is looking at how a protein called ADAMTS9 affects kidney development and diseases like nephronophthisis, with the hope of finding new ways to improve kidney health and treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Worcester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11001920 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a protein called ADAMTS9 in the development of kidneys and related diseases, particularly focusing on a condition known as nephronophthisis (NPHP). The researchers will explore how ADAMTS9 influences the formation of primary cilia, which are essential for kidney function. By using advanced techniques to manipulate genes in mouse models and cell cultures, they aim to uncover the mechanisms by which ADAMTS9 affects kidney health. This could lead to a better understanding of kidney diseases and potential new treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old who may be affected by nephronophthisis or related kidney conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with kidney diseases not related to ciliary dysfunction or those over 11 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and therapies for kidney diseases, particularly those affecting children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the role of proteins in kidney development can lead to significant advancements in treating kidney diseases, suggesting this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Worcester, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Autosomal Recessive Medullary Cystic Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.