Understanding Kidney Transplant Outcomes in Black Americans
Long-term Kidney Transplantation Outcomes Network (APOLLO) Clinical Center
['FUNDING_U01'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11131281
This research aims to better understand how a specific gene, APOL1, affects kidney transplant success for Black Americans, both for those donating and receiving kidneys.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_U01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11131281 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Many Black Americans experience a higher burden of chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease. We know that certain changes in the APOL1 gene, found mostly in people of African ancestry, are linked to several types of kidney disease. However, it's not clear how these gene changes impact kidney transplantation, for example, if living donors with these changes face higher risks or if recipients of kidneys with these changes have different outcomes. This work seeks to answer these important questions to ensure fair and effective kidney transplantation for all.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant to Black Americans considering or undergoing kidney transplantation, both as donors and recipients, particularly those with APOL1 gene variants.
Not a fit: Patients without kidney disease or those not involved in kidney transplantation may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to better guidance for kidney donors and recipients, potentially improving long-term transplant success and reducing health disparities for Black Americans.
How similar studies have performed: Initial studies have suggested a link between APOL1 risk variants and worse graft outcomes, but the overall impact in kidney transplantation for both donors and recipients remains understudied.
Where this research is happening
NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES
- VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER — NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BIRDWELL, KELLY A — VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: BIRDWELL, KELLY A
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.