By Samantha Ricardo 

Graphic design by Andrew Janeczek

This past November, I had the pleasure of attending my first nephrology conference as a graduate student. I visited Philadelphia for the American Society of Nephrology’s (ASN) 2023 Kidney Week. From November 2^nd to 5^th,  scientists, clinicians, and trainees researching kidney disease gathered to discuss the latest findings in nephrology, from kidney transplantation to rare genetic diseases, and diabetes.   

Barua Lab at Kidney Week 2023

Despite a somewhat rocky start – I had the unfortunate experience of losing my luggage in the airport – the conference was an incredibly opportunity to be immersed in kidney research from across the world.

Each day started with a plenary session, featuring addresses by the ASN President and guest speakers. Notably, Dr. Ardem Patapoutian, a Nobel laureate known for his groundbreaking work on receptors related to temperature and touch, gave one of the addresses. These plenary sessions were followed by poster presentations. Given the focus of my lab’s research is Alport Syndrome, a very specific and rare genetic kidney disorder, it can be challenging to find other researchers whose work closely relates to my own. However, at the ASN Kidney Week 2023 poster session, there was entire section dedicated to the study of Alport Syndrome, connecting me to a much larger network of both established and early-career researchers within the field.

The rest of the day included sessions on specific topics including collagen IV variants and their relation to kidney disorders, the correlation of data science and nephrology, and the exploration of genetic therapies for kidney disease. Particularly interesting was the discussion on the use of specific oligonucleotide inhibitors as a genetic treatment for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease – a rather novel approach considering the limited specificity of targeted genetic therapies for kidney diseases.  

One of the most touching aspects of this conference was the interference between clinical and basic science. As someone who spends most of her days in the lab or working with rodents, this conference was an extremely important reminder that all the work we do as scientists is ultimately aimed at improving the quality of life and wellbeing of patients. This theme tied together the connection between basic research, clinical trials, and future commercial therapies. 

One of my biggest take-aways from this conference is the importance of collaboration within research. Perhaps no one at your institute studies your research topic, however, it is likely that someone, somewhere does. To this end, it is incredibly important to keep updated in your research field. Another important take-away from this conference is the connection that exists between disparate scientific fields. This message was brought into focus by Dr. Patapoutian, whose research on touch receptors, while initially focused on the brain, likely extends beyond neuroscience, and may impact other organs including the kidneys.  This serves as an important reminder to never underestimate the potential relevance of research unrelated to your field of study, and to keep an open mind to learning from peers, including peers within the Institute of Medical Science. I am excited to continue learning from others through conferences and programs which connects students including IMS Scientific Day!

Although our schedule was incredibly busy, my lab mates and I did get the opportunity to explore parts of Philadelphia, particularly the food scene! The loss of my luggage also granted me the ability to walk through downtown Philadelphia and appreciate the city’s charm.

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have attended this conference and am looking forward to applying all the knowledge learned to future kidney disease research!