Sorin Fedeles, PhD, MBA

Entrepreneur and scientist leading a program focused on elucidating the impact of unfolded protein response (UPR) pathways modulation on the progression of Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) using cellular, biochemical, genetic, and pharmacological approaches.

Employing whole-genome CRISPR/Cas9 forward screens coupled with single-cell RNAseq to identify new targets for ADPKD. Developed a novel proof-of-concept model to examine the role of ER protein folding in modulating the progression of ADPKD due to Pkd1 missense mutations. Characterized a novel genetic mouse model of tubulo-interstitial kidney disease. Initiated and managed a collaboration with a bio-engineering group at MIT to test/develop compounds for the treatment of ADPKD. Based on this, put together grant applications that have led to ~$2.6 million in federal and private funding from the Department of Defense (DoD) and the PKD foundation with a method-of-use patent issued.

Responsibilities include managing and training research staff, writing grants/manuscripts, budget oversight, teaching, serving as a peer-reviewer on grants and journal submissions, and disseminating research via national/international conferences.

Founder of academic-spinouts based on Yale discoveries; leading the scientific, fundraising, and pre-clinical development strategy.

Principal Investigator on past and current funded grants (accepted or declined) totaling ~$5.2 million from NIH (RO1-declined; P&F), DoD (Discovery and IIRA), and the PKD Foundation.

Currently serving as Executive Director of the Polycystic Kidney Disease Outcomes Consortium at Critical Path Institute.