Understanding Kidney Cell Health in Chronic Kidney Disease
Role of Calpains in Podocyte Biology
This research explores how certain proteins called calpains affect the health of special kidney cells, called podocytes, to find new ways to help people with chronic kidney disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11072122 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a serious health issue that can lead to kidney failure, and problems with podocytes, which are filtering cells in your kidneys, are a major cause. This project aims to understand the basic ways these podocytes develop, stay healthy, and repair themselves. We are looking at specific genes and proteins, like Pfn1 and Capn2, that seem to play a key role in keeping these kidney cells working correctly. By studying these mechanisms, we hope to uncover new targets for treatments that could prevent or slow down kidney damage.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals living with or at risk of chronic kidney disease, especially those with podocyte dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from participating in this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new medications or therapies that protect kidney cells and prevent the progression of chronic kidney disease to kidney failure.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific link between Pfn1, Capn2, and podocyte dysfunction is a novel focus, other studies have highlighted the importance of calpain activation in glomerular injury.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ishibe, Shuta — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Ishibe, Shuta
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 below.