A Tiny Worm Helps Scientists Unravel a Genetic Clue to Kidney Disease

Roundworm study uncovers cellular effects of kidney disease mutation

A microscopic worm that has no kidneys is helping Rutgers scientists understand a genetic change suspected of causing a serious inherited kidney disease.

A tiny worm helps scientists unravel a genetic clue to kidney disease

A microscopic worm that has no kidneys is helping Rutgers scientists understand a genetic change suspected of causing a serious inherited kidney disease. By making a precise change in the roundworm's DNA and following the proteins it produces, researchers discovered the altered protein failed to reach the place where it normally works. But when a healthy version was present in the same animal, that protein continued doing its job.

Mutation Prevents Essential Sensory Protein Transport to Neuronal Antenna Structures

A microscopic worm that has no kidneys is helping Rutgers scientists understand a genetic change suspected of causing a serious inherited kidney disease.