Understanding how certain mice can regenerate their kidneys

Epigenetic regulation of kidney regeneration

NIH-funded research Seattle Children's Hospital · NIH-11143259

This study is exploring how the African spiny mouse can heal its kidneys after injury, with the hope that understanding this process will help improve treatments for kidney injuries in people.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSeattle Children's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-11143259 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind kidney regeneration, focusing on the unique abilities of the African spiny mouse. Led by pediatric nephrologist Dr. Elizabeth Nguyen, the project aims to uncover how epigenetic factors influence kidney healing after injury. By comparing the responses of spiny mice and house mice, the research seeks to identify specific gene regulatory networks that could lead to breakthroughs in treating kidney injuries in humans. The study utilizes advanced genomic techniques to analyze the differences in kidney response between these species.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pediatric patients experiencing kidney injuries or chronic kidney disease.

Not a fit: Patients with fully functional kidneys or those with irreversible kidney damage may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that promote kidney regeneration in children suffering from kidney injuries.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using the African spiny mouse is novel, similar studies in regenerative medicine have shown promising results in other contexts.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, 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.
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.