Pakistani PhD Scholar Wins Prestigious Awards for Breakthrough Kidney Disease Research
Islamabad: A PhD research scholar from the Institute of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics at Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University (SZABMU), Islamabad, has earned top academic honors for his groundbreaking research on chronic kidney disease, securing the Magdy Yaqoob Gold Medal along with the First Prize at a national scientific forum.
The award-winning research was conducted in collaboration with Pak Emirates Military Hospital (PEMH) Rawalpindi, the Armed Forces Bone Marrow Transplant Center Rawalpindi, and the National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), under the supervision of Dr. Mohsin Shahzad.
Titled “Genetic and Clinical Analysis of Chronic Kidney Disease in the Pakistani Population,” the study identified four novel biallelic pathogenic genetic variants in the CLDN16, MYO1E, FAM133A, and COL4A4 genes. Experts say these findings significantly enhance understanding of the genetic basis of hereditary kidney diseases in Pakistan and highlight the importance of early genetic screening and counseling for at-risk populations.
In addition to this achievement, the scholar also received the Second Prize for a separate clinical research project titled “Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy in Diabetic Chronic Kidney Disease.” The study was based on a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial involving 91 patients with type-2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease at stages II to IV.
The trial results demonstrated stabilization or mild improvement in kidney function, along with a significant reduction in HbA1c levels, without any reported adverse effects. Researchers noted that the findings support the safety and therapeutic potential of stem cell–based interventions in managing diabetic kidney disease.
Medical experts believe the combined genetic and clinical findings underscore the molecular diversity of renal disorders in Pakistan and point toward the growing role of precision medicine and regenerative therapies in improving diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of kidney diseases.
Meanwhile, Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University continues to strengthen its academic and research footprint by launching new MPhil programs and expanding research initiatives across multiple biomedical disciplines. The university is actively collaborating with leading institutions, including NUMS and PEMH, to enhance research capacity, promote innovation, and contribute to evidence-based healthcare solutions in Pakistan.
University officials say such achievements reflect SZABMU’s commitment to advanced research, academic excellence, and addressing pressing national health challenges through science and innovation.
Read in Urdu: پاکستانی محقق کی گردوں کے امراض پر تحقیق عالمی سطح پر تسلیم
