Understanding how kidney cells defend against bacterial infections

Harnessing the acid-base cellular machinery of intercalated cells in the bacterial defense of the kidney

['FUNDING_R01'] · INDIANA UNIVERSITY INDIANAPOLIS · NIH-10906089

This study is looking at how special kidney cells help protect against kidney infections, like pyelonephritis, and aims to find new ways to treat these infections by understanding how these cells fight off bacteria.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorINDIANA UNIVERSITY INDIANAPOLIS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (INDIANAPOLIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10906089 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific kidney cells, known as intercalated cells, in defending against bacterial infections like pyelonephritis. By studying a model that mimics a deficiency in these cells, researchers aim to uncover how they produce antimicrobial substances and respond to bacteria. The approach includes advanced techniques such as real-time imaging and single-cell mRNA sequencing to observe how these cells interact with bacteria. The ultimate goal is to develop new treatment strategies for kidney infections based on these findings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced recurrent urinary tract infections or pyelonephritis.

Not a fit: Patients with non-bacterial kidney conditions or those who do not have a history of urinary tract infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments for kidney infections, reducing morbidity and healthcare costs associated with pyelonephritis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the immune response of kidney cells to bacterial infections, indicating that this research builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

INDIANAPOLIS, 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 →

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.