Protective mechanisms of lymphangiogenesis in kidney injury

End-stage kidney disease is the ninth-leading cause of death in the United States with nearly 100,000 Americans waiting to receive a kidney for transplantation. A common pathologic feature of kidney disease is the development of interstitial fibrosis and glomerulosclerosis, which are associated with the expansion of the lymphatic vasculature termed lymphangiogenesis. In this proposed study we will determine the mechanisms by which kidney lymphangiogenesis influences the progression of kidney disease using a new model of inducible lymphangiogenesis in the setting of kidney injury. The evaluation of transcriptional response in kidney specific niches will help elucidate targets for potential new therapeutics.