Federal Grant Award Summary

The University of Virginia received a $797,878 Project Grant award from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) under the Diabetes, Digestive, and Kidney Diseases Extramural Research program (CFDA 93.847), effective February 24, 2026, with completion targeted for January 31, 2030. The award funds research investigating the pathogenesis of concentric arterial and arteriolar hypertrophy (CAAH) in kidney arterioles, a serious vascular complication associated with chronic hypertension and renin-angiotensin system inhibitor (IRASI) use. The research will examine the molecular mechanisms underlying arterial remodeling, with particular focus on the role of nerve growth factor (NGF) production by renin cells and the contributions of axonal innervation to aberrant vascular smooth muscle cell accumulation, fibrosis, and progressive renal failure.

The project deliverables include fundamental scientific research advancing understanding of disease mechanisms and contributing to improved prevention and treatment strategies for hypertension-related kidney disease. Research activities conducted at the University of Virginia's Charlottesville campus will address knowledge gaps regarding how renin cells regulate vascular cell differentiation and fate determination through paracrine and neurogenic pathways, with potential implications for optimizing antihypertensive therapies and preventing progressive organ damage in the substantial U.S. population affected by hypertension.