Autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common hereditary disease worldwide. ADPKD belongs to disorders, which are commonly referred to as ciliopathies. Ciliopathies are due to defects in tiny structures – the primary cilia. Primary cilia are eyelash protrusion emanating from the cell surface that function as cellular antenna. Defects in this antenna function in the kidney cause cyst development. However, the molecular details how the antenna function is disturbed and why this leads to cyst development, is not well understood. Here, we will use techniques to resolve the molecular sequence of events in the cilium and how this information is transduced into the cell to cause cyst formation. This will allow identifying new targets for novel concepts to treat ADPKD.

Here you can find further information.