Division of Nephrology
Lab Research
Barasch Lab:
The Barasch Lab explores kidney growth and damage mechanisms, notably identifying methods to generate segmented nephrons from renal progenitors. Dr. Barasch’s work uncovered a critical transcription factor for nephrogenesis and purified NGAL, revealing its role in kidney injury as an iron chelator for bacteriostasis. This discovery led to the development of the first clinically used biomarker for kidney damage. Dr. Barasch has been continuously NIH-funded, co-leading the George O’Brien Urology Center, and has mentored numerous students, many of whom have become independent scientists. He also plays a key role in educational programs at Columbia University.
Gharavi Lab:
The Gharavi Lab focuses on the molecular genetics of kidney diseases, identifying key genes related to IgA nephropathy and congenital kidney defects. Using mouse models and sequencing techniques, the lab has advanced the understanding of kidney disorders and integrated genomic medicine into patient care. Dr. Gharavi leads a Center for Precision Medicine and collaborates with national networks like CureGN and the All of Us program. He has mentored many students and young researchers, earning the Mentor of the Year award.
Honig Lab:
The Honig Lab combines computational and experimental methods to study protein structure and function. By integrating biophysics and molecular simulations, the lab has revealed key insights into protein interactions, such as how cadherins mediate cell adhesion. This research is being applied to kidney studies in collaboration with Dr. Sampogna. Dr. Honig is recognized with numerous awards for his contributions to biophysics and computational biosciences and has mentored over 100 scientists, many of whom have become leaders in the field.
Kiryluk Lab:
The Kiryluk Lab investigates the genetics of immune-mediated kidney diseases, focusing on IgA nephropathy. Through large genome-wide studies, the lab has identified susceptibility loci and demonstrated how genetic risk varies globally. Ongoing research seeks to refine the disease pathogenesis model using systems genetics. The lab also works on kidney transplantation outcomes and participates in several national research networks like CureGN and the Kidney Precision Medicine Project.
Landry Lab:
The Landry Lab studies intractable health challenges, including heart failure, drug addiction, and neurodegenerative diseases. Dr. Landry’s work led to the discovery of vasopressin as a treatment for vasodilatory shock, now used worldwide. His lab, part of the Organic Chemistry Collaborative Center, focuses on drug discovery and development, with numerous patents and startups emerging from this research. Dr. Landry is also a key figure in mentoring and educational programs at Columbia University.
Sampogna Lab:
The Sampogna Lab studies kidney development, creating a 3D map to track kidney formation and investigate the molecular mechanisms that guide its architecture. The lab collaborates with Dr. Honig to study cadherins’ role in kidney development, integrating biophysical data with mouse models to understand cell interactions. This research aims to design modified cadherins that can predictably alter morphogenetic processes in the kidney.
Sanna-Cherchi Lab:
The Sanna-Cherchi Lab focuses on the genetics of rare kidney diseases, particularly congenital anomalies and nephrotic syndrome. The lab uses a multidisciplinary approach, combining human genomic data with mouse and zebrafish models to investigate disease mechanisms. The lab has shown links between pediatric kidney diseases and neurodevelopmental disorders. Dr. Sanna-Cherchi has been continuously funded since 2009 and has mentored numerous trainees, many of whom have secured independent funding.