Understanding how genetic variations in APOL1 affect kidney disease risk in African Americans

The Impact of APOL1 Copy Number Variation on Kidney Disjavascript:autoSave('https://apps.era.nih.gov:443/gmii/home.era?menu_itemPath=59%27)ease Susceptibility in African Americans

NIH-funded research Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center · NIH-10995387

This study is looking at how certain changes in a gene called APOL1 might affect the risk of kidney disease in African Americans, with the goal of better understanding these genetic factors to help improve treatments in the future.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10995387 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of genetic variations in the APOL1 gene and their impact on kidney disease susceptibility among African Americans. It focuses on how different copies of the APOL1 gene can influence the risk of developing kidney failure, particularly in individuals who carry certain risk variants. The study aims to uncover the complexities of these genetic variations and their effects on kidney health, using advanced genetic analysis and mouse models to explore the underlying mechanisms. By identifying how these genetic factors contribute to kidney disease, the research seeks to improve understanding and potentially guide future treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American individuals who may carry APOL1 risk variants or have a family history of kidney disease.

Not a fit: Patients who do not belong to the African American population or do not carry APOL1 risk variants may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better risk assessment and targeted interventions for kidney disease in African Americans.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that genetic variations in APOL1 are linked to kidney disease, indicating that this research builds on established findings in the field.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.