Patient-derived stem cell models for Fabry disease, Alport syndrome, and polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
We were the first to report the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from human kidney cells (J Am Soc Nephrol, 2011), a pivotal step toward personalized medicine for genetic kidney diseases. Our research focuses on developing iPSC-based disease models for Fabry disease, Alport syndrome, and PKD, enabling us to recapitulate disease-specific mechanisms in kidney cells. These models provide powerful platforms for investigating pathogenesis, screening novel therapeutics, and understanding individual variability in treatment response. By generating patient-specific kidney cells from iPSCs, we aim to accelerate drug discovery and enable precision medicine approaches in nephrology.

Animal models to investigate the progression from AKI to CKD
We use experimental mouse models to study the molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive the progression from acute kidney injury to chronic kidney disease. These models allow us to dissect key pathways involved in inflammation, fibrosis, and tissue remodeling following ischemic or toxic injury. We are particularly interested in how sex-specific factors influence disease progression and treatment responses. This work provides critical insight into the long-term consequences of AKI and supports the development of targeted interventions to prevent CKD.

CSF-1 therapy for congenital kidney defects
Our group is developing an innovative therapy using colony-stimulating factor 1 (CSF-1) to promote kidney development and repair. CSF-1 plays a key role in renal development and macrophage-mediated regeneration. We have demonstrated its potential to stimulate kidney growth and functional maturation, opening the door to novel therapeutic options for congenital kidney disorders. This approach holds particular promise for early intervention in unborn babies with kidney defects, a condition for which there is currently no effective treatment.