Welcome to the Sampson Lab for Kidney Genomics
Genomic discovery towards causes, treatments, and cures for nephrotic syndrome
Inspired to Discover
In partnership with patients, physicians, and researchers around the globe, the Sampson Lab seeks to improve the health of children with the protein-spilling kidney disease nephrotic syndrome using the tools of modern genomics. We integrate sequencing technologies, computer science, biostatistics, epidemiology, and functional experiments to bring an “applied genomics” approach to nephrotic syndrome research. Our goal is to translate these genomic discoveries to genomic medicine; bringing a Precision Medicine approach to inform us on the causes, prognoses, and treatments for patients with nephrotic syndrome.
Our research seeks to:
Discover and/or characterize new and established nephrotic syndrome-associated genetic variants
Illuminate the mechanisms linking these genetic changes with nephrotic syndrome, towards development of targeted treatments and cures
Uncover the clinical consequences for patients carrying disease-associated genetic variants
Identify strategies to improve genomic literacy about kidney diseases for nephrologists and patients and their families
-
Our culture
Discover, contribute, educate, and connect. These are the core words that describe our mission at the Sampson Lab. We believe in holding ourselves and others to the highest standard in our work, diversity and inclusion, ethics, and values.
-
Our team
The Sampson Lab is dedicated to discovering the genomic basis of nephrotic syndrome. Meet the members of our team who are driving forward research for this rare kidney disease.
-
Our research
Genetic changes can cause, or contribute to, nephrotic syndrome. If we can discover new, and map known, nephrotic syndrome-associated variants, we can improve our ability to diagnose, care for, and ultimately treat children with this disease. To make these discoveries, we use the tools of genomics, computational biology, bioinformatics, and epidemiology.
BIGKiDs Study
Our lab has made a number of genomic discoveries using biosamples and data from patients with nephrotic syndrome who have chosen to participate in a variety of research studies including NEPTUNE and CKID. In 2020, at Boston Children’s Hospital, we created the BIGKiDs Study (“Biobank to Investigate the Genetics of Kidney Disorders”) to expand and accelerate discoveries in partnership with patients with childhood-onset nephrotic syndrome. BIGKiDs participants are sharing their biosamples and health information to build a library for researchers. These valuable resources will be used to advance our knowledge of nephrotic syndrome and, eventually, other pediatric kidney diseases.
¿Hablas Español? Obtén más información sobre BIGKiDS en Español aquí.
