• Our Core co-directors will assist in identifying specific molecular targets for precise drug and payload delivery in the kidney.
• Application Supported: Therapy Delivery, Diagnostics/ Molecular Imagining

• Co-directors will aid in choosing suitable nanocarriers that align with molecular targets for specific kidney sub-regions.
• Cargos supported: siRNA, microRNA, Hydrophobic small molecule drug, Hydrophilic small molecule drug, Peptides.

• After selecting ligands and appropriate nanocarriers, the Core will oversee the synthesis of targeting moieties, leveraging the capabilities of the Peptide Synthesis Core for varied-scale production.
• Kidney Cell Types or Structures for Nanoparticle-Enhanced Delivery: Proximal Tubule, Consultation with the Core Director (if unsure), Podocyte, Collecting Duct, Glomerulus
• Cell types we can do later if needed: Endothelium, Monocytes, Renal Interstitium, Renal Lymphatics

• The Core will facilitate the incorporation of therapeutic payloads into nanoparticles, utilizing various strategies based on the cargo and application.
• Nanoparticle Types Supported: Liposomes, Lipid nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles, Polymeric nanoparticles, Peptide micelles.

• Core co-directors will provide expertise in assessing the targeting accuracy of nanotherapeutics both in lab settings and live subjects.
• Main Priorities for NanoCore Assistance: In vitro binding, In vitro biocompatibility, in vitro therapeutic efficacy; design of In vivo pharmacokinetics, In vivo targeting, in vivo therapeutic efficacy studies

The RDC is committed to creating and improving research tools and technologies that can be utilized by the Biomedical Resource Core. This is done through 3 main projects:

• Advancing RNA Delivery to Kidney Using Nanotechnology: This project focuses on the development and optimization of methods for delivering short RNAs (siRNAs and miRNAs) to the kidney.
• High Throughput Single-Cell Profiling for Drug Target Identification: Leveraging the LeaPFroG (Large-Scale Phenotypic Functional Genomics at Scale) platform developed by Shana Kelley in the Chemistry department at Northwestern University, this project aims to identify new drug targets and modifiers of kidney disease progression. A proof-of-concept study will be conducted to find modifiers of IgA binding/interaction with mesangial cells, a key mechanism in the renal injury associated with IgA nephropathy.
• Proteoform Imaging Mass Spectrometry (PiMS) Optimization: Proteoform Imaging Mass Spectrometry (PiMS) technology will be optimized to identify and map proteoforms in kidney thin sections. This project represents a significant step forward in understanding the complexity of kidney protein structures and functions at the molecular level. (In years 3-5)

The RDC is dedicated to fostering the development and validation of emerging physical science technologies in kidney research, ensuring their applicability, quality, and potential impact through meticulous evaluation.

• Community Engagement: Engages with leading scientists to incubate and integrate new technologies, nurturing a collaborative atmosphere for the exchange of ideas and technological improvement.
• Validation and Quality Control: Implements standardized evaluation protocols to assess and ensure the performance and reliability of new technologies within research settings.
• Impact Assessment: Dedicates efforts to gauge the potential contributions of innovative technologies to kidney research and their role in enhancing established research methodologies.
• Technology Integration Support: Offers robust infrastructure and support for seamlessly incorporating new technologies into current research, aiding researchers in effective technology adoption and utilization.
• Educational Outreach: Conducts workshops and seminars aimed at educating the kidney research community on emerging technologies, ensuring the widespread dissemination of knowledge regarding the latest advances.

•  The RDC leverages Northwestern University’s strong base of physical scientists in nanomedicine, bioengineering, and chemistry, all committed to kidney research, fostering a robust interdisciplinary approach.