# The Physiologic Role of Gpr116 in the Kidney

> **NIH NIH F32** · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · 2020 · $67,446

## Abstract

Project Summary
 G protein-coupled seven transmembrane receptors (GPCRs) are the most common target of
pharmaceutical drug development, and uncovering the function of novel GPCRs receptors in the kidneys
represents a wealth of untapped therapeutic potential. Current investigations into the novel roles of sensory
receptors in the kidney have enriched our understanding of renal function; for example, our lab recently identified
important physiological roles for two different novel renal GPCRs (Olfr78 regulates renin secretion, whereas
Olfr1393 modulates renal glucose handling). These, and numerous other studies, have demonstrated the
importance of investigating previously understudied or overlooked receptors in order to uncover novel
interventions for kidney disease. We recently undertook a screen for novel GPCRs in the kidney to identify
promising yet overlooked renal GPCRs. This screen revealed that the understudied GPCR, Gpr116, is highly
expressed in the kidney. Published RNASeq data from other labs suggests Gpr116 is found preferentially in the
collecting ducts, a site of considerable Na+ and water absorption. In this proposal, we will determine its
expression profile within the kidney (Aim 1) , characterize the downstream effects of Gpr116-mediated Gq-
signalingon renal transport processes (Aim 2), and investigate its physiologic significance (Aim 3). In sum, we
aim to determine the physiological role of Gpr116 in the kidney, with the hope of eventually exploring the
therapeutic potential of Gpr116 in the treatment of renal disease. The results of these studies will provide
important insight regarding the role of an understudied and overlooked receptor on kidney physiology. Moreover,
successful completion of the proposed research will not only identify the biologic and clinical significance of
Gpr116, but will additionally demonstrate the therapeutic potential of investigating novel and understudied
GPCRs in the kidney.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9859396
- **Project number:** 5F32DK116499-03
- **Recipient organization:** JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** Nathan A Zaidman
- **Activity code:** F32 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $67,446
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2018-03-01 → 2021-02-28

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9859396

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9859396, The Physiologic Role of Gpr116 in the Kidney (5F32DK116499-03). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-22 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9859396. Licensed CC0.

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