Transcriptomic Analysis of Single Cells in Kidney Disease

Purpose and goal

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) represents a major health burden worldwide and often leads to the development of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Because the incidence of diabetes, obesity and hypertension has continuously increased, the economic impact of CKD/ESRD on health care systems is expected to grow steadily. Therefore, the Haase group has develop novel methods that may help the early diagnosis, prevention and treatment of CKD and reduce the high risks of cardiovascular events, ESRD and death in CKD patients.

Expected results and effects

In collaboration with Karolinska Institutet and Uppsala University, Prof. Volker H. Haase of Vanderbilt University has developed technology that aims at identifying molecular biomarkers to aid the diagnosis and treatment of patients with acute and chronic kidney diseases. This project takes advantage of single cell approaches and combines novel technical and bioinformatics platforms with experimental animal models.

Planned approach and implementation

The project has used sophisticated genetic and renal injury mouse models developed by Professor Haase´s laboratory to examine the role of oxygen metabolism in the pathogenesis of chronic kidney disease. RNA sequencing technology was used for a detailed molecular characterization of individual renal cell populations under baseline and injury conditions (cells were isolated from normal, injured and genetically modified kidneys).