RNASE1 as a novel driver of cytoskeletal remodelling in podocytes

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Mario Schiffer
• Subject Area: Nephrology
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 555592275

This project will focus on our search for endogenous human blood peptides that are able to restore podocyte structure and promote the regeneration of podocyte foot processes with the potential of improving the outcome of the associated proteinuric kidney diseases. Previous work from our group led to the identification of one endogenous candidate protein from human hemofiltrate, RNASE1, as a novel player in the regeneration of the cytoskeleton of podocytes. Based on this, we will test the hypothesis that RNASE1 is either directly or indirectly capable of modifying intracellular signaling cascades that lead to favourable changes in actin dynamics and focal contacts in podocytes. Our ultimate goal with this project is to assess the potential of RNASE1 as a treatment strategy in our in vivo models to treat podocytopathies.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants