Understanding how vitamin D affects kidney development in preterm infants

Investigating the effect of dysregulated vitamin D metabolism on kidney development following preterm birth

NIH-funded research University of Virginia · NIH-11056088

This study is looking at how not having enough vitamin D might affect the kidneys of premature babies, especially how it could lead to the loss of important kidney cells, with the hope of finding ways to help prevent kidney problems later on.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Virginia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlottesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11056088 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of vitamin D deficiency on kidney development in infants born preterm. It focuses on how dysregulated vitamin D metabolism may lead to the loss of important kidney cells called podocytes, which are crucial for kidney function. By studying a preterm model, the researchers aim to uncover the relationship between vitamin D levels and kidney health, potentially leading to new insights into preventing chronic kidney disease in these vulnerable patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are preterm infants who may be at risk for vitamin D deficiency and subsequent kidney issues.

Not a fit: Patients who are not preterm or those who do not have any vitamin D metabolism issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing kidney disease in preterm infants through better management of vitamin D levels.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results regarding the role of vitamin D in kidney health, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Charlottesville, 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 2026-06-13 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.