Using stem cells and synthetic genes to heal kidney damage
Official title: Harnessing stem cells and synthetic gene circuits to repair glomerular injury
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10687570 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new ways to help people with chronic kidney disease and end-stage kidney disease by using stem cells and special technology to better understand how kidneys work, with the hope of finding better treatments than what we have now, like dialysis and transplants.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1,425,761 |
| NIH project number | 1DP2DK139544-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10687570 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults suffering from chronic kidney disease or end-stage kidney disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute kidney injury or those who do not have chronic kidney disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative therapies for chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) by utilizing stem cells and synthetic gene circuits. The approach aims to create experimental models that accurately mimic human kidney biology, which can lead to better understanding and treatment options. By integrating human stem cell technology with organoids and tissue-chip systems, the research seeks to identify ways to repair kidney damage and improve patient outcomes. This could provide new avenues for treatment beyond current options like dialysis and transplantation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to groundbreaking therapies that repair kidney damage and significantly improve the quality of life for patients with CKD and ESKD.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using stem cells and organoid technology for kidney repair, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Musah, Samira — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Musah, Samira
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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.