Using a specific drug to protect kidney cells in kidney diseases
Podocyte-specific Rap1 agonism for treatment of glomerular disease
This study is looking at a special type of kidney cell that helps filter your blood, and it aims to find ways to boost a protective protein in these cells to help slow down kidney diseases, especially for people with diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11023111 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on a type of kidney cell called podocytes, which are crucial for filtering blood and are damaged in various kidney diseases. The study aims to enhance the activation of a protein called Rap1 in these cells, which has been shown to protect them from injury. By understanding how to increase the levels of active Rap1, the researchers hope to develop new treatments that can slow the progression of chronic kidney diseases, including diabetic kidney disease. The approach involves both genetic and pharmacological methods to boost Rap1 activity specifically in podocytes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from chronic kidney diseases, particularly those with diabetic kidney disease or congenital nephrotic syndrome.
Not a fit: Patients with acute kidney injuries or those whose kidney issues are not related to podocyte dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly slow down the progression of chronic kidney diseases and improve kidney function.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting podocyte protection through similar mechanisms, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaufman, Lewis — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Kaufman, Lewis
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.