Glomerulosclerosis, Focal clinical trials

The Nephrotic Syndrome Study Network (NEPTUNE)

Background: - The Nephrotic Syndrome Study Network (NEPTUNE) is a network of multidisciplinary researchers who are investigating why kidney disease happens. NEPTUNE researchers will collect kidney tissue and other samples (for example, blood and urine) from individuals who are scheduled to have kidney biopsies to determine the cause of protein in the urine (only one kidney biopsy is necessary). Objectives: - To collect kidney tissue, other samples, and data /information for continuing research into kidney diseases. Eligibility: - Individuals at least 18 years of age who need to have a kidney biopsy to determine the cause of protein in the urine, do not have a systemic disease that is the cause of the their kidney disease, and have not received specific treatment for kidney disease. Design: - This study involves a screening and baseline visit and additional followup visits after the kidney biopsy. - Participants will be screened with a medical history and physical examination, as well as blood and urine samples and collection of fingernail clippings. Participants will also complete questionnaires about their history of kidney problems. - During the kidney biopsy, performed at the NIH Clinical Center, researchers will take an additional tissue sample for research. - Participants will return for followup visits at NIH every 4 months in the first year, and every 6 months in the second through fifth years after the biopsy. Additional blood and urine samples will be collected at each visit, and fingernail clippings will also be collected annually by the study researchers. - Treatment for kidney disease will not be provided as part of this protocol and instead will generally be provided by the patient s own physician. Compensation: Subjects received compensation for each visit to the NIH Clinical Center.