Abstract: INFO08-TH
The NU-USC O'Brien National Resource Center: Integrating Nanotechnology and Physical Sciences for Kidney Health
Session Information
- Informational Posters - 1
October 22, 2026 | Location: Exhibit Hall A, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Bioengineering
- No subcategory defined
Authors
- Quaggin, Susan E., Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States
- Kapitsinou, Pinelopi P., Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States
- Chung, Eun ji, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States
- Sosa-Pineda, Beatriz, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States
- Judge, Sheila M., Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States
- Luiz Suzuki, Isabella, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States
- Chen, Yunxi, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States
- Fraterrigo, Terri, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States
Description
The George M. O’Brien Kidney National Resource Center at Northwestern University, in collaboration with the University of Southern California (USC), is one of seven federally funded centers spearheading a nationwide effort to advance kidney research. By generating and distributing critical investigative resources to the broader scientific community, these centers accelerate innovation across the field. The Northwestern-USC center specifically integrates nanotechnology and the physical sciences to address challenges in kidney health. It is anchored by two primary scientific cores: the Biomedical Resource Core and the Resource Development Core.
The Biomedical Resource Core provides the national kidney research community with advanced nanotechnology services and validated transgenic mouse lines to drive innovative methodologies. The Resource Development Core serves as a launchpad for emerging technologies, developing tools like cell-specific renal RNA delivery systems, high-throughput proteoform assays for histone-modification, and high-resolution mapping of kidney structure and function. Integrating these cutting-edge resources successfully bridges disciplinary boundaries, accelerating scientific discovery and advancing overall kidney health.
The Administrative Core provides essential infrastructure and strategic coordination, linking Northwestern and USC to the broader National Resource Alliance. It ensures operational alignment, drives outreach, and supports strategic initiatives to grow the national community of kidney researchers. Furthermore, its SciHigh Summer Student Enrichment Program provides youth with hands-on research experiences and exposure to kidney science, actively nurturing the next generation of scientists.
Acknowledgment
The O’Brien Center is supported by funding from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).