Towards understanding the biology of human renal tract malformations using a patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell model

Principal Researcher – Adrian S. Woolf

Some people are born with such poorly formed kidneys that they need dialysis or kidney transplantation to survive. We now know that such individuals often carry abnormal genes which, in health, help kidneys form and grow normally. In Manchester, we run renal genetic clinics for children and adults, and have a wealth of experience in diagnosing such diseases and counselling families.
In our project, kidney and genetics researchers will work with ‘stem cell’ scientists to better understand the biology of these diseases. Our results will help design therapies to make kidney cells grow correctly. In future, such therapies may allow people to live free from dialysis and transplantation.