Müller-Deile Lab

Intranephron communication through exosomes

The molecular mechanisms responsible for cross-compartmental involvement of the kidney are not yet known. Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles that contain proteins and mRNAs from the cell they originate from. We hypothesize that a previously unrecognized intercompartmental exchange between glomerular and tubule cells occurs via exosomes. We aim to resolve tubular targets and uptake mechanisms of glomerular cell derived miRs using dynamic tracking of exosomes in vivo and determine the implications on cellular function. As translational approach, urinary exosomes from patients with glomerular diseases are evaluated as potential non-invasive biomarkers for the disease. Furthermore, we investigate the origin of urinary exosomes by flow cytometric analysis and proteomic analysis. We perform dynamic live imaging and kidney compartment specific quantification of cell type-specific fluorescent exosomes in co-culture and in zebrafish model using 2-photon microscopy, multiplex confocal microscopy as well as electron microscopy. We further investigate signaling pathways of glomerular cell derived miRs in tubular cells. With this work, we aim to gain insights into yet unknown signaling pathways and inter-compartment communication between the glomerulus and the tubular system, which are mediated by exosomes and might play a role in modulating tubular injury in glomerular diseases.

Principal Investigator:

Prof. Dr. med. Janina Müller-Deile, MHBA

Senior Physician