Understanding how kidney cell injury leads to cyst formation in ciliopathies

Injury Response Mediated Pathogenesis in Renal Ciliopathies

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-10992598

This study is looking at how tiny structures in kidney cells, called primary cilia, can cause fluid-filled cysts to form when they don’t work properly, especially in people with certain genetic conditions, and it aims to find new ways to help treat kidney diseases related to these issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10992598 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of primary cilia in kidney cells and how their dysfunction can lead to the formation of cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs. The study focuses on how renal injury affects these cells and promotes cyst development, particularly in individuals with specific genetic mutations. By using mouse models, researchers will analyze the cellular responses to injury and the mechanisms that drive cystogenesis, aiming to uncover the underlying processes that contribute to kidney disease. This research could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for treating renal ciliopathies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic predispositions to renal ciliopathies or those experiencing kidney dysfunction.

Not a fit: Patients without any form of renal ciliopathy or those with unrelated kidney conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reduce cyst formation in patients with kidney diseases related to ciliopathies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that understanding the role of cilia in kidney function can lead to significant advancements in treating related diseases, indicating a promising avenue for this research.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, 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.