Understanding how cells manage misfolded proteins in kidney cells
Official title: Mechanisms of ER-Protein Quality Control in Podocytes
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10993170 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain kidney cells handle misfolded proteins to keep your kidneys healthy, and it hopes to find new ways to improve treatments for kidney diseases that happen when proteins don’t fold correctly.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | November 17, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $367,304 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK132786-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10993170 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit include individuals with kidney diseases, particularly those related to protein misfolding, across all age groups.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with kidney conditions unrelated to protein misfolding may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which kidney cells, specifically podocytes, manage misfolded proteins through a process called ER-associated degradation (ERAD). The study aims to understand how the SEL1L-HRD1 protein complex helps maintain kidney function by ensuring proper protein folding and degradation. By examining the interactions between ERAD and autophagy, the research seeks to uncover new insights into cellular health and kidney filtration processes. Patients may benefit from findings that could lead to improved treatments for kidney diseases related to protein misfolding.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for kidney diseases caused by protein misfolding.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding protein quality control mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Qi, Ling — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Qi, Ling
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.