Understanding how kidney cells maintain their structure and function
Official title: Revealing New Therapeutic Opportunities for Kidney Glomerular Diseases by Elucidating the Mechanobiological Functions of Novel Cytoskeletal Structures in Podocytes
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11000153 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how kidney cells called podocytes keep their shape and stick to each other, which is important for healthy kidney function, and it aims to find new treatments that could help people with chronic kidney diseases by fixing these cells.
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 start | August 8, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $820,119 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK141178-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11000153 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with chronic kidney diseases, particularly those with glomerular diseases like Alport syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute kidney injuries or those without any form of kidney disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that help kidney cells, specifically podocytes, maintain their structure and adhere to the surrounding tissue. By examining the cytoskeletal dynamics and the stability of cell connections, the study aims to uncover why these cells often lose their shape and function in kidney diseases. The approach includes exploring potential therapeutic strategies that could restore normal podocyte function and prevent further kidney damage. Patients with chronic kidney diseases may benefit from new treatments developed through this understanding.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve kidney function and outcomes for patients with glomerular diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding podocyte function and developing targeted therapies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Miner, Jeffrey H — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Miner, Jeffrey H
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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.