Proteinuria is a sign of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and a risk factor for kidney and cardiovascular outcomes. Podocytes are specialized epithelial cells of the glomerular filtration barrier (GFB). It is possible to directly address the podocytic actin cytoskeleton with a small molecule (Bis-T-23). This compound improves proteinuria and reverses glomerular damage in different models of podocyte injury, regardless of the original cause. However, since Bis-T-23 has no properties to become a human drug, it is necessary to identify compounds with similar biochemical and biological properties in order to test them directly in humans with proteinuria. With this research project, we are able to accelerate the identification process and rapidly translate these results into clinical application. These peptides could revolutionize the supportive therapy of kidney diseases such as diabetic nephropathy.

Here you can get further information.