Understanding how human adrenal glands develop and function
Official title: Stem Cell-Based Models for Elucidating Human Adrenocortical Development and Dysfunction
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11095863 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how human adrenal glands develop using special stem cell techniques, with the goal of better understanding conditions like primary adrenal insufficiency that can be serious for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 18, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $487,084 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK134493-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11095863 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to adrenal gland dysfunction, such as Addison's disease or other forms of adrenal insufficiency.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with adrenal disorders that are not related to developmental issues or genetic defects may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the development of human adrenal glands using advanced stem cell technology. By creating organoids from human induced pluripotent stem cells, researchers aim to mimic the normal development and hormone production of the adrenal cortex. The study focuses on identifying the cellular and genetic mechanisms that lead to conditions like primary adrenal insufficiency, which can be life-threatening. Through this innovative approach, the research seeks to provide insights that could improve our understanding of adrenal gland disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better treatments and management strategies for patients with adrenal gland disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using stem cell models has shown promise in understanding various developmental processes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sasaki, Kotaro — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Sasaki, Kotaro
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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.