Parietal epithelial cell activation and glomerulosclerosis: Mechanisms, mediators and clinical diagnosis ((3)-P17)

• Subject Area: Nephrology
• Term: from 2009 to 2020
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 36842431

Building on our progress from the first funding periods, we will investigate the molecular and biophysical mechanism of glomerular hyperfiltration and glomerular hypertrophy as independent risk factors for parietal cell (PEC) activation and induction of glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). To improve diagnosis, we will identify and characterize novel biomarkers for PEC activation and single nephron glomerular filtration rate (SNGFR) in renal biopsies and in urine, respectively. Finally, we and others have identified an additional reservoir of podocytes on Bowman's capsule in newborn mammals. We will investigate whether recruitment of podocytes from this reservoir is regulated and whether it can be enhanced.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 57: Organ Fibrosis: From Mechanisms of Injury to Modulation of Disease
• Applicant Institution: Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Marcus Möller; Professor Dr. Tammo Ostendorf