Understanding how human adrenal glands develop and function

Stem Cell-Based Models for Elucidating Human Adrenocortical Development and Dysfunction

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11095863

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

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11095863 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: 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.

Not a fit: Patients with adrenal disorders that are not related to developmental issues or genetic defects may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

PHILADELPHIA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Addison's disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.