Kirsten Sadler Edepli, a renowned biology professor at NYU Abu Dhabi, has earned a prestigious research project grant (R01) from the US National Institutes of Health (NIH). The grant, totaling nearly $1 million, is dedicated to investigating the ageing liver and its diminished capacity for regeneration as time progresses.
This noteworthy achievement marks the first instance of the NIH awarding a grant to a sole principal investigator, highlighting Edepli’s exceptional contributions. The rigorous competition for NIH research funding underscores the significance of her accomplishment, with only a fraction of applications receiving approval each grant season.
Edepli, who also holds positions as an NYU global network professor of biology and vice provost for faculty advancement and engagement at NYU Abu Dhabi, specializes in genetics and cell biology. Her pioneering work employs zebrafish as a model to explore development, disease, and regeneration.
The research gains significance against the backdrop of rising liver disease risks among the ageing population. As the liver’s regenerative ability diminishes with age, addressing this concern is crucial. Particularly in the Middle East, where liver disease rates are increasing, Edepli’s research has profound implications. By facilitating liver regeneration, her work could alleviate the impact of liver-related diseases among the elderly.
The R01 grant, the NIH’s original funding mechanism, supports research aligned with the institution’s mission. The grant is administered by institutes and centers dedicated to advancing various areas of health-related research. In this case, the grant comes from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), which focuses on critical health issues.
