Understanding how specific kidney cells contribute to kidney development and disease.
Official title: The role and regulation of pericytes in remodeling the periarterial niche during nephrogenesis
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-10876929 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special cells around blood vessels in the kidneys to see how they help the kidneys grow and how they might be involved in kidney disease, which could lead to new ways to treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $40,242 |
| NIH project number | 5F30DK137405-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10876929 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for chronic kidney disease or those with early signs of kidney dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute kidney injury or those who do not have any kidney-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of pericytes, specialized cells surrounding blood vessels, in the development of the kidneys and their potential involvement in chronic kidney disease. By studying these cells during nephrogenesis, the research aims to uncover how they influence the formation of blood vessels and the extracellular matrix, which is crucial for kidney function. The approach includes using genetic models in mice to trace the origins and functions of these pericytes, providing insights into their regulatory mechanisms. This could lead to a better understanding of kidney diseases and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating chronic kidney disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of pericytes in other organ systems, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Luo, Peter — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Luo, Peter
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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.