Wright State launches institute, endowment to fuel cutting-edge cardiovascular and kidney research

The Kidney PathoPhysiology Research Endowment and Cardio-Renal Institute are inspired by the work of Nancy Bigley, professor emeritus of neuroscience, cell biology and physiology at Wright State.

Wright State University will expand its cardiovascular and renal health research through a new endowment and research institute.

The Kidney PathoPhysiology Research Endowment aims to advance groundbreaking kidney research by supporting the Cardio-Renal Institute, which will serve as a hub for innovation in cardiovascular and kidney health.

The new initiatives are inspired by Nancy Bigley, Ph.D., professor emeritus of neuroscience, cell biology and physiology, who has served Wright State for over 40 years, leaving an indelible mark on the university and biomedical research.

“Known for her commitment to scientific excellence and mentorship, Dr. Bigley has empowered countless students and researchers, fostering a culture of curiosity and discovery that will now live on through these groundbreaking initiatives,” said Clintoria Williams, Ph.D., associate professor of neuroscience, cell biology and physiology and scientific director of the Cardio-Renal Institute.

Wright State will honor Bigley’s legacy and celebrate the future of kidney research during a special event on Tuesday, Nov. 19, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Endeavour Room of the Student Union.

“By tackling kidney disease, the Cardio-Renal Institute is positioned to make breakthroughs that can reduce the overall burden of chronic diseases on society, improving health outcomes for millions,” Williams said.

Kidney disease affects 37 million adults, or one in 10 people, in the United States. It progresses without symptoms until it reaches advanced stages. Many who progress to end-stage kidney failure depend on dialysis or a kidney transplant, with 87% of transplant candidates waiting for a kidney.

Kidney disease claims more lives annually than breast and prostate cancers and is the 10th leading cause of death worldwide. In Ohio, kidney disease ranked among the top 10 causes of death in 2023, underscoring the need for local research and intervention.

Wright State’s Kidney PathoPhysiology Research Endowment will fund research across basic, translational and clinical stages that target the causes and outcomes of kidney disease. By investing in projects in multiple scientific disciplines, training programs for the next generation of researchers and collaborative initiatives, the endowment seeks to drive life-saving advancements and redefine the future of kidney health.

Clintoria Williams is an associate professor of neuroscience, cell biology and physiology and scientific director of the Cardio-Renal Institute at Wright State.

The work supported by the new endowment extends beyond kidney health. Discoveries in kidney research will also impact related conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and hypertension.

“With these initiatives, Wright State University honors Dr. Bigley’s extraordinary legacy, ensuring that her passion for science, education and mentorship will continue to inspire groundbreaking discoveries for generations to come,” Williams said. “Through the Cardio-Renal Institute and the Kidney PathoPhysiology Research Endowment, her legacy will light the path toward a healthier future, advancing research that has the power to save lives and shape the field of medicine.”