Understanding kidney diseases linked to genetic variations in the APOL1 gene
Official title: Mechanisms of Kidney Diseases Associated With APOL1 Variation
Funded at Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru · NIH-11030331 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how certain genetic differences in the APOL1 gene might lead to serious kidney problems that affect many Black patients, and it hopes to find out how these differences cause kidney damage, so we can better understand and treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | February 2, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $615,838 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK135265-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11030331 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Black individuals with a family history of kidney disease or those diagnosed with chronic kidney disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without African ancestry or those not affected by kidney diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind severe kidney diseases that disproportionately affect Black patients, particularly those with specific genetic variations in the APOL1 gene. By examining the differences in protein behavior associated with these genetic variants, the study aims to uncover how these variations contribute to kidney damage. The approach involves advanced techniques like mass spectrometry to analyze cellular proteins and their interactions, which could reveal new pathways involved in kidney disease. Patients may be involved in providing genetic samples or participating in related assessments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and targeted treatments for kidney diseases in populations affected by APOL1 genetic variants.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic factors in kidney diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sedor, John R. — Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
- Study coordinator: Sedor, John R.
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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.