Urology Research for Patients
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles is proud to be a leader in pediatric urology research. Our researchers are engaged in top-tier clinical trials and basic science research funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Our research gives children access to new, advanced therapies that may not be available elsewhere. Our researchers and doctors are paving the way toward newer, better treatments for pediatric urology conditions.
The GOFARR Laboratory
The GOFARR Laboratory at The Saban Research Institute is a driving force behind our basic science pediatric urology research. This specialized lab investigates the newest stem cell and organ regeneration treatments for pediatric urology conditions.
The NIH provides funding for this long-standing laboratory. Only laboratories with the highest degree of research quality receive this level of funding. Learn more about the GOFARR Laboratory for Organ Regenerative Research and Cell Therapeutics in Urology.
Our Pediatric Urology Research Efforts
As a leading academic pediatric urology program, we provide children and their families with the highest level of care. Our advanced treatments are available largely because of our world-leading research.
Our discoveries in the lab shape the care we provide. And our research helps us discover newer, better ways to treat pediatric urology conditions. We conduct this research through our GOFARR lab and Health Systems Innovation and Clinical Outcomes Program. Examples of our research projects and breakthroughs include:
Stem cell therapy for chronic kidney disease (CKD) in children
CKD treatment often includes dialysis and possibly a kidney transplant. But our researchers discovered that stem cells from amniotic fluid help repair the kidneys, leading to longer survival times. Doctors collect amniotic fluid stem cells without harm to the mother or fetus.
Wilms tumor research
Wilms tumor is a kidney cancer that affects children. In many cases, treatment includes kidney removal (nephrectomy). Our doctors and researchers are examining methods for saving healthy kidney tissue while treating Wilms tumor. Read more about Wilms tumor and genitourinary tumor treatment.
Safer pain relief after pediatric urology surgery
Our scientists are examining the pain relief needs of children after pediatric urology surgery. Their research aims to find non-opioid pain relief options that are effective and safe. Learn more about our minimally invasive and robotic pediatric urology surgery, which offers less pain and a faster recovery.
Improved testing for children with spina bifida
Children with spina bifida may need various tests for bladder and kidney function. Our researchers are looking at data to examine which tests children need for the best possible treatment. This may help families avoid unnecessary tests and procedures. Learn more about our Spina Bifida Program.
Advanced management of urology conditions in a fetus
Our doctors discover many urology conditions in fetuses before birth. Our researchers are studying prenatal care for mothers and how early treatment of these conditions can lead to optimal outcomes. Learn more about our leading-edge fetal urology care.
