Understanding how thrombin damages kidney cells

Thrombin-Mediated Podocyte Injury Mechanisms

NIH-funded research Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp · NIH-10868770

This study is looking at how a protein called thrombin can harm important kidney cells in people with nephrotic syndrome, and it aims to find ways to use existing blood-thinning medications to protect those cells and help slow down kidney disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionResearch Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, United States)
Project IDNIH-10868770 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which thrombin, a protein involved in blood clotting, causes injury to podocytes, which are essential cells in the kidneys. By using animal models of nephrotic syndrome, the study aims to identify how thrombin activates certain receptors that lead to podocyte damage. The researchers will explore potential therapies, including the use of existing anticoagulant medications, to prevent this injury and slow the progression of kidney disease. This work is crucial for developing targeted treatments for patients suffering from nephrotic syndrome.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome or those at risk of developing end-stage kidney disease.

Not a fit: Patients with kidney conditions unrelated to thrombin-mediated injury may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly slow or halt the progression of nephrotic syndrome and improve kidney health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting thrombin-related pathways for kidney protection, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.