Understanding how specific genes affect kidney cell development
Official title: Hedgehog gene regulatory networks in the mammalian kidney
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11161390 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific signaling process in the kidney helps keep important cells healthy, which could lead to new treatments for kidney diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2022 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $451,708 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK131052-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11161390 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of kidney diseases, particularly those with a family history of renal issues or hypertension.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully developed kidneys and no history of renal disease may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Hedgehog signaling in the maintenance of mesenchymal nephron progenitor cells (MNPs) in the mammalian kidney. By analyzing how these cells develop and are regulated, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that prevent their premature depletion, which can lead to kidney diseases. The study employs genetic profiling and mutant models to observe the effects of Hedgehog signaling on MNPs and their differentiation. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for kidney-related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing kidney diseases associated with low nephron numbers.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding gene regulatory networks in organ development, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Park, Joo-Seop — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Park, Joo-Seop
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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.