# CD40 autoantibody and FSGS recurrence

> **NIH NIH R01** · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · 2020 · $542,692

## Abstract

ABSTRACT:
Recent studies in recurrent FSGS (rFSGS) suggest a potential role for CD40 auto-
antibody (autoAb) isolated from the sera of FSGS patients. Most interestingly, CD40
autoAb and soluble urokinase receptor (suPAR) together drive the development of
nephropathy in rodents, while neither one could not do it alone sufficiently. We
hypothesize that CD40 autoAb plays an important role in rFSGS either as a biomarker or
as an injury factor contributing to rFSGS, and that CD40 autoAb and suPAR
synergistically induce FSGS. Blocking CD40 or suPAR-αvβ3 integrin signaling could
represent novel therapeutic concepts for FSGS. Thus in this research program, we
propose a highly innovative and translational study with three independent but cohesive
Aims to explore the mechanisms of suPAR and CD40 autoAb interaction that cause
renal damages. In Aim 1, we will assess the implication of CD40 and CD40 autoAb in
FSGS. In Aim 2, we explore whether and how suPAR and CD40 autoAb induce FSGS in
animal models in vivo. In Aim 3, we will test the therapeutic concepts by blocking suPAR
induced podocyte β3 integrin activity and/or by interfering CD40 related signaling. In sum,
this research program will help unravel the pathogenesis of FSGS recurrence and
develop novel targeted therapeutic strategies for FSGS as well. The study combines
unique expertise of domain experts in nephrology, immunology and podocyte biology,
with deliverables of high clinical impact and immediate translation to the bedside.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9912137
- **Project number:** 5R01DK109720-04
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- **Principal Investigator:** Jochen Reiser
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $542,692
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2017-04-01 → 2022-03-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9912137

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9912137, CD40 autoantibody and FSGS recurrence (5R01DK109720-04). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9912137. Licensed CC0.

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