Malaria drug tested to save Kids' kidneys from rare genetic disease

This study tested whether hydroxychloroquine, a drug used for malaria and autoimmune diseases, could help slow kidney damage in children with X-linked Alport syndrome, a rare genetic condition that causes progressive kidney failure. Fifty children and teenagers (ages 3-18) in China were randomly assigned to receive either hydroxychloroquine or standard care for 24 weeks, followed by a 24-week observation period. Researchers measured changes in urine blood cells, protein levels, and kidney function to see if the drug was safe and effective at protecting the kidneys.