The role of the factor H-related proteins in kidney disease    

Complement refers to a group of proteins that we use to fight infection. Complement is very efficient at killing bacteria. However, under some circumstances, complement can cause damage to our tissues. The kidney and eye are the most susceptible to damage. C3 glomerulopathy is an example of a rare kidney disease caused by complement but it also contributes to kidney damage in common kidney diseases, such as IgA nephropathy. C3 glomerulopathy affects children and young adults and can cause permanent kidney damage resulting in the patient needing dialysis or a transplant. There is no effective treatment for either disease. 

I will study how complement causes kidney damage in these two diseases. I will use my findings to develop safe treatments that will prevent complement from causing kidney failure.