Using urine tests to detect lupus nephritis early
Official title: Clinical applications of urine proteomics to lupus nephritis
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11001208 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at urine samples from people with lupus to find early signs that could predict kidney problems before they happen, so that doctors can help prevent serious damage and offer safer treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $759,737 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK134625-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001208 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who are at risk of developing lupus nephritis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have systemic lupus erythematosus or those who have already experienced significant kidney damage may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on identifying biomarkers in urine that can predict lupus nephritis (LN) before significant kidney damage occurs. By analyzing urine samples from lupus patients, the study aims to develop a panel of biomarkers that indicate LN activity prior to the onset of proteinuria, which is a sign of kidney damage. The research builds on previous findings from a large lupus cohort and aims to shift the management of LN towards prevention, potentially leading to earlier and less toxic treatments for patients. The study will involve collecting and analyzing urine samples over a period of time to establish a reliable predictive biomarker panel.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enable earlier detection and treatment of lupus nephritis, potentially preventing kidney damage.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using urine proteomics for biomarker discovery in lupus nephritis, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fava, Andrea — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Fava, Andrea
Related research
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AI-powered look at lupus nephritis in humans and mice
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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.