Understanding how kidney cells fight bacterial infections
Official title: A mechanistic approach to intercalated cell phagocytosis
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10882212 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special kidney cells help protect against bacterial infections, like kidney infections, to find new ways to treat urinary tract infections and improve kidney health for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | August 11, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $625,300 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK136510-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10882212 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit include individuals with a history of recurrent urinary tract infections or those at risk for pyelonephritis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-bacterial kidney conditions or those not experiencing urinary tract infections may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of intercalated cells in the kidney's defense against bacterial infections, particularly focusing on pyelonephritis. By studying a specific model of intercalated cell deficiency, the research aims to uncover how these cells respond to bacteria and contribute to the innate immune response. The team utilizes advanced techniques like single-cell mRNA sequencing to analyze how these cells interact with pathogens, which could lead to new treatment strategies for urinary tract infections. Patients may benefit from insights gained about kidney function and infection resistance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for patients suffering from kidney infections and improve overall kidney health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the immune response of kidney cells, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schwaderer, Andrew Lawrence — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Schwaderer, Andrew Lawrence
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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.