Anna Greka

The research proposes to define the molecular mechanisms by which TRPC channels lead to proteinuria and FSGS, and identify and validate inhibitors of these channels as novel therapeutics for the treatment of FSGS. Goldfinch Biopharma is a startup biotechnology company that aims to identify, validate, and pursue novel therapeutic targets to treat progressive kidney diseases. The company focuses on developing genetic‐based therapeutic treatments for Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD). The company does not currently have any drugs on its pipeline. The committee determined that the aims of the research were relevant to the company’s genetic research and pharmacologic intervention efforts. It further determined that since the company was still in the early stages of formation, the research results could affect the company’s business orientation and research direction, and concluded that the financial interest was related to the research as defined by the PHS regulations, and given its nature and magnitude, the financial interest could directly and significantly affect the design, conduct, or reporting of the research. Therefore, the financial interest in connection with the research constitutes a Financial Conflict of Interest under PHS regulations.