Understanding kidney development in premature infants using a monkey model

Bridging the gap of late gestation human nephrogenesis using a non-human primate model

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · CINCINNATI CHILDRENS HOSP MED CTR · NIH-11030628

This study is looking at how kidneys grow in the later stages of pregnancy, using rhesus macaques to learn more about the important process of forming nephrons, with the hope that this research can help improve kidney development in premature babies and lower their chances of kidney problems as they grow up.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCINCINNATI CHILDRENS HOSP MED CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CINCINNATI, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11030628 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how kidneys develop in late gestation, particularly focusing on a process called lateral branch nephrogenesis, which is crucial for forming nephrons. Since studying human kidney development directly is challenging, researchers are using a non-human primate model, specifically rhesus macaques, to gain insights. The study employs advanced molecular techniques, such as single-cell RNA sequencing and ATAC sequencing, to explore the signaling pathways that sustain nephron development. The ultimate goal is to develop therapeutic strategies that could enhance kidney development in premature infants, potentially reducing their risk of chronic kidney disease later in life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants who are at risk for low nephron numbers and subsequent kidney issues.

Not a fit: Patients who are not premature or do not have kidney development concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve kidney health in premature infants, reducing their risk of chronic kidney disease.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using animal models to understand kidney development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

CINCINNATI, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.