NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Using CRISPR technology to potentially cure a common kidney disease.

Official title: CRISPR-Cas Editing as a Genetic Cure for Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease

Funded at Nephrogen INC. · NIH-10822502 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is working on a new gene therapy for people with Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) that aims to fix the gene causing the problem, which could help improve kidney health and offer a lasting solution for those affected by this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNephrogen INC.
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project startSeptember 19, 2023
Project endAugust 31, 2025
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$325,000
NIH project number1R41DK138689-01
Project IDNIH-10822502 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease, particularly those with mutations in the Pkd1 gene.

Less likely to help

Patients with other forms of kidney disease or those without genetic mutations related to ADPKD may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a gene therapy for Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD), a genetic disorder that leads to kidney failure. The approach involves using CRISPR-Cas editing to correct mutations in the Pkd1 gene, which is responsible for most ADPKD cases. The researchers are optimizing adeno-associated virus (AAV) capsids to effectively deliver the gene therapy to kidney cells. If successful, this innovative treatment could provide a long-term solution for patients suffering from this debilitating condition.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could offer a genetic cure for patients with Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease, potentially eliminating the need for dialysis or kidney transplantation.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using gene therapy for genetic disorders, but this specific approach using CRISPR for ADPKD is novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

  • Nephrogen INC.
    New York, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Maxim, Demetrios S — Nephrogen INC.
  • Study coordinator: Maxim, Demetrios S

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
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Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.