Understanding how kidneys develop and function to improve treatments for kidney defects

Establishing and Mimicking Patterning Mechanisms in the Distal Nephron Tubule and Kidney Organoid

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · NIH-10893591

This study is looking at how kidney cells develop in babies before they are born, which can help us understand kidney problems that some kids are born with, and it hopes to find new ways to help those kids by using special lab-grown kidney cells.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10893591 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the development of nephrons in the kidneys, focusing on how specialized cells are formed during embryonic and fetal stages. By using advanced techniques like single cell omics, the researchers aim to map the origins and differentiation of kidney cells, which is crucial for understanding congenital kidney defects. The study also seeks to replicate these processes in human stem cell-derived kidney organoids, providing insights into potential therapies for patients with congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT). This work could lead to new interventions for restoring or replacing kidney function in affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract, particularly those diagnosed with CAKUT.

Not a fit: Patients with acquired kidney diseases or those without congenital kidney defects may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that improve kidney function and outcomes for patients with congenital kidney defects.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using stem cell-derived organoids to model kidney development, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.