Understanding Laminin Receptors in Kidney Health
The Laminin Receptors in Kidney Disease
This project explores how certain cell communication proteins, called laminin receptors, are important for healthy kidney development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11160633 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have special proteins on cell surfaces, called integrins, that help cells connect and communicate with their surroundings. These integrins are crucial for many cell functions, including how cells stick together, move, and grow. This particular work focuses on a type of integrin that binds to laminin, a key component of the tissue around cells. We are studying how these laminin-binding integrins contribute to the proper formation of kidneys, especially during early development. By understanding these connections, we hope to learn why some kidney abnormalities occur.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but could eventually benefit infants born with severe kidney abnormalities or those at risk for such conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with kidney diseases unrelated to developmental abnormalities involving laminin receptors may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of the causes of kidney birth defects and potentially new ways to prevent or treat them.
How similar studies have performed: This work builds upon previous findings regarding integrins' roles in kidney development and introduces new insights into specific integrin subunits and their interactions.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zent, Roy — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Zent, Roy
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.