Wafaa N. Albalawy

2023 Pre-Doctoral Fellowship Award

Institution: University of Pittsburgh

Project Title: The Role of SGLT2 Inhibitors in Proximal Tubule Function

How would you sum up your research in one sentence?

My research aims to understand the direct effect of SGLT2i on proximal tubule (PT) function.  

Provide a brief overview of the research you will conduct with help from the grant.

Through this grant I will determine the direct effects of SGLT2i using a highly differentiated PT cell model that represents the S1 segment. I will also investigate the molecular mechanism through which SGLT2i affect PT endocytosis.

What impact do you hope your research will have on patients?

By establishing how different SGLT2i affect proximal tubule function, this work will help in providing more individualized treatment for patients. This project may also open a venue for a wider therapeutic application for SGLT2i beyond their glycemic-lowering effects in diabetes. 

What are your career goals at the end of the grant period? Five years out? Ten years out?

My goal is to do postgraduate training to further my transition as an independent scientist.  Ultimately, I plan to specialize in molecular genetics of kidney disease. 

In one sentence, please describe the importance of having grant funding available through KidneyCure.

The KidneyCure grant will provide me with the funding and resources I need to enhance my scientific knowledge and skills. Additionally, it will enable me to connect and interact with nephrologists and researchers in the field.

What advice would you give to others to encourage them to apply for this grant funding?

Don't give up and keep trying! 

In my free time I like to… 

Travel, read, and drink coffee.