Nephrology and Hypertension

Research

Current Research activities in the MGHfC Division of Pediatric Nephrology:

Genetic Defects in Familial Renal Disorders, Calcium / Phosphorus Metabolism and Metabolic Bone Disease: Our laboratories study genes associated with a variety of kidney and bone diseases. We have described a number of genes responsible for disorders of abnormal calcium and phosphorus handling by the kidney. We are also studying the genetic basis of kidney stones in children and their families as noted above.

Biomarkers of Steroid Resistance in Pediatric Nephrotic Syndrome: Children with newly diagnosed Nephrotic Syndrome are treated with steroids, as the majority of them will achieve remission. However, a growing minority who fail to respond will progress to renal failure in spite of potent immunosuppressive medication. Using state-of-the-art proteomic technologies, we are studying proteins that will predict which patients will be steroid resistant prior to treatment and significance of those proteins in understanding Nephrotic Syndrome.

FSGS Clinical Trial: This is a multicenter study sponsored by the NIH to determine the optimal treatment regimen for children with Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), in which our division is participating. FSGS is the most common form of steroid resistant Nephrotic Syndrome and a common cause of Chronic Renal Failure in children. Study Website

Hypertension Research: Our Unit also participates in research studies on Pediatric Hypertension including trials of anti-hypertensive medications and genetics. Specifically, we participate in studies on genetic forms of Hypertension, including rare forms of mineralocorticoid excess such as Glucorticoid Remediable Aldosteronism (GRA Registry).

 

Immunology of Lupus Nephritis: We are studying mouse models of Lupus Nephritis in order to better understand and treat the immunologic problems that can damage the kidneys of children with SLE.

Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS): We are examining new pathways that contribute to the development of hemolytic uremic syndrome using samples from subjects with this condition. We are also doing laboratory studies using cultured kidney cells, as well as studying an animal model of HUS in order to explore the interaction of the renin angiotensin system and the tissue factor pathway of coagulation.