Using stem cells and synthetic genes to heal kidney damage

Harnessing stem cells and synthetic gene circuits to repair glomerular injury

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10687570

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

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10687570 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults suffering from chronic kidney disease or end-stage kidney disease.

Not a fit: Patients with acute kidney injury or those who do not have chronic kidney disease may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

DURHAM, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancers, neoplasm/cancer

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.