# Racial differences in MT1/MT2 receptor expression in human kidneys

> **NIH NIH R01** · RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES · 2024 · $41,558

## Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY
While melatonin is commonly thought of as a regulator of circadian rhythm, it has broad physiologic actions.
Melatonin may regulate immune function and protect the host against toxicants. The parent grant aims to
investigate melatonin as a nephroprotectant agent. The nephroprotective effects are likely mediated through
binding to the MT1/MT2 receptors, activation of nuclear receptors, and receptor-independent mechanisms.
The current supplement aims to evaluate racial differences in endogenous serum melatonin concentrations,
mitochondrial density, and expression of MT1/MT2 in human kidneys. While data regarding plasma and urine
melatonin concentrations in humans are available, few studies have evaluated tissue concentrations, and even
fewer (if any) examined racial differences. Moreover, racial differences in mitochondrial density and MT1/MT2
receptor expression in human kidneys have not been previously examined. The kidneys have one of the
highest densities of mitochondria in the human body and are essential for kidney health. Understanding
biological differences may help identify why there are disparities in acute kidney injury.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 11062264
- **Project number:** 3R01DK131214-03S1
- **Recipient organization:** RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES
- **Principal Investigator:** Luigi Brunetti
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $41,558
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2024-02-01 → 2026-01-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11062264

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 11062264, Racial differences in MT1/MT2 receptor expression in human kidneys (3R01DK131214-03S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/11062264. Licensed CC0.

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