Podocyte polarity signaling: The role of the Crumbs2 complex in podocyte maturation and maintenance (A03)

• Subject Area: Nephrology ; Cell Biology
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 543604419

The project aims to uncover Crb2’s role in podocyte structural organization and to distinguish its functions at the in slit diaphragm (SD) from polarity signaling. Using mouse models, 2D/3D cultures, and organoids (Crb2 knockout and GFP-tagged systems), snRNA-sequencing, and super-resolution imaging, we will investigate Crb2’s mechanisms, functions, and dynamics during podocyte maturation, differentiation, and in disease. Key aspects include investigations of details concerning Crb2 localization and turnover, interaction partners at the SD, signaling networks, and the role of polarity signaling in podocyte maturation and maintenance.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 422: PodoSigN – Podocyte Signaling Networks - From Basic Concepts to Disease Understanding
• Applicant Institution: Universität zu Köln
• Project Heads: Dr. Annika Möller-Kerutt; Professor Dr. Thomas Weide