Field of Research. Chronic kidney disease affects 1 in 10 adult Australians, although many are not aware of this insidious disease. Progression to end-stage kidney disease requires treatment by dialysis or transplantation. Dr Nikolic-Paterson’s research focuses identifying the underlying mechanisms of inflammation and fibrosis that are involved in both kidney disease and kidney transplant rejection. In particular, his work focuses on signalling pathways in leukocytes, intrinsic kidney cells and fibroblasts. Using a combination of approaches in human and experimental kidney disease, including conditional gene deletion, cell culture studies and selective kinase inhibitors, a number of therapeutic targets have been identified which are relevant not only to progressive kidney disease, but also chronic fibrotic diseases in the lung, liver and heart. This work has led to a number of clinical trials in lung and kidney disease, including a current study of ASK1 blockade in patients with diabetic kidney disease. This has been achieved through collaborations with researchers both within Australia and overseas, and with a number of commercial companies.

Research opportunities. We have a variety of projects available for PhD students and post-doctoral scientists examining novel mechanisms of inflammation and fibrosis in kidney disease. Our lab has an active PhD student program with 4 current students at different stages of their studies.