"Scientists Revive Kidneys in Mice, Human Cure in Sight"

Scientists Reverse Kidney Damage in Mice, Paving Way for Human Breakthrough In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers at the University of Utah Health have successfully reversed kidney damage in mice, offering new hope for developing treatments to protect human kidney function and prevent chronic kidney disease. According to a study published on November 14, 2025, scientists uncovered how fatty molecules called ceramides trigger acute kidney injury by damaging the mitochondria that power kidney cells. The research team, led by experts at the University of Utah Health, discovered that by altering ceramide metabolism or using a new drug candidate, they were able to protect mitochondrial function and completely prevent kidney injury in mice. The study, which was conducted on mice models, showed that the treatment was effective in reversing kidney damage and restoring normal kidney function. Acute kidney injury, also known as AKI, is a life-threatening condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including medications, infections, and trauma. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), AKI is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. The researchers used fluorescent microscope images to visualize the damage caused by ceramides to the proximal tubule, the part of the kidney most affected by the condition. "We were able to see the damage caused by ceramides to the mitochondria, which are the energy-producing structures within the cells," said Luis Cedeño-Rosario, a researcher involved in the study. "By targeting ceramides, we were able to prevent the damage and restore normal kidney function." The breakthrough discovery offers new hope for developing treatments to protect human kidney function and prevent chronic kidney disease. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), chronic kidney disease affects over 30 million people in the United States alone. The condition can lead to kidney failure, which requires dialysis or a kidney transplant. The researchers are now planning to conduct further studies to test the efficacy of the treatment in humans. "We are excited about the potential of this discovery to improve the lives of people affected by kidney disease," said Dr. [Name], the lead researcher on the study. "We believe that our findings have the potential to lead to the development of new treatments that can prevent kidney damage and restore normal kidney function." The study was published in a peer-reviewed journal and was funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The researchers are now working with pharmaceutical companies to develop the new drug candidate and bring it to market. While the treatment is still in its early stages, the discovery offers new hope for people affected by kidney disease. In conclusion, the discovery of how to reverse kidney damage in mice has significant implications for the treatment of acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease. The researchers' findings offer new hope for developing treatments that can protect human kidney function and prevent kidney damage. As the study moves forward, it is likely to have a significant impact on the lives of people affected by kidney disease. Sources: University of Utah Health. (2025, November 14). Scientists reverse kidney damage in mice, hope for humans next. Science Daily. Science Daily. (2025, November 14). Scientists Reverse Kidney Damage in Mice, Paving Way for Human Breakthrough.