Medical Student Research Fellowship for Summer 2010

Mentor: Dr. Amy Becker
Department: Pediatrics
Room number: G3.252
Mail Code: 9063
Phone number: 214-648-3438
E-mail: amy.becker@utsouthwestern.edu
Project title: GFR Measurement and Urinary Substances in Children with Sickle Cell Anemia (SCA)
Human subjects IRB approved project number (where applicable): 102009-062
Animal subjects IRB approved project number (where applicable): N/A
Project Type (patient-based research, animal-based research, or basic research; this characterization is only to permit a general classification for grouping similar types of projects) Patient Based

Research Brief Description of Project: This is a cross-sectional study evaluating kidney function in children with sickle cell anemia. The etiology of sickle cell neuropathy is unknown. This study tests the current model of disease by measuring GFR by iohexol clearance in a large population of children with SCA and by measuring urinary substances, such as prostaglandins, nitric oxide metabolites, and angiotensinogen, which may play a role in the pathophysiology of sickle cell neuropathy.

Previous Research Activities or Publications with Medical Students: None