Understanding how kidney cells develop to prevent kidney disease
Epigenetic mechanisms of gene regulation in nephron progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation
This research aims to understand how kidney cells grow and change normally, which could help prevent birth defects and chronic kidney disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11142605 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our kidneys are made of tiny filtering units called nephrons, and having the right number of these is crucial for health. This project looks at how special 'progenitor' cells in the kidney balance growing and changing into mature nephrons. When this balance is off, it can lead to conditions like underdeveloped kidneys or long-term kidney disease. We are exploring how certain proteins work together to guide these cells, ensuring they form the correct kidney structures at the right time. By uncovering these fundamental processes, we hope to find new ways to prevent or treat kidney problems.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for individuals affected by kidney birth defects, such as renal hypoplasia, or those at risk for chronic kidney disease.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options will not directly benefit from this basic science research, as it focuses on fundamental biological processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for preventing kidney birth defects and chronic kidney disease by better understanding how kidneys form.
How similar studies have performed: While individual factors in kidney cell development are known, how these factors cooperate to control gene expression in the developing kidney is a major challenge that this novel work aims to address.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rauchman, Michael I — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Rauchman, Michael I
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 below.