Neal S. Young, MD, is an American pediatric nephrologist and physician‑scientist noted for his research on the immunopathogenesis and treatment of glomerular diseases, particularly nephrotic syndrome. He has held academic positions at the University of Washington School of Medicine and has contributed extensively to clinical trials and translational studies in pediatric kidney disorders.
Early life and education
Neal Sherwin Young was born in the United States; specific details of his birth date and early upbringing are not widely documented in publicly available sources. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and received his medical degree (MD) from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine. Following medical school, Young completed a residency in internal medicine and a fellowship in pediatric nephrology, both at the University of Washington.
Academic and clinical career
Young joined the faculty of the University of Washington School of Medicine, where he has served as a professor of pediatrics and as the chief of the Division of Pediatric Nephrology. In this role, he oversees clinical care for children with kidney disease, mentors trainees, and leads research initiatives.
Research contributions
Young’s research focuses on the mechanisms underlying primary nephrotic syndrome, especially minimal‑change disease and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). His work has helped elucidate the role of T‑cell dysregulation and circulating permeability factors in disease pathogenesis. He has been a principal investigator on multiple multicenter clinical trials assessing novel immunosuppressive regimens and biologic therapies for steroid‑resistant nephrotic syndrome.
Key contributions include:
- Identification of a circulating factor associated with permeability changes in FSGS, informing subsequent therapeutic strategies.
- Participation in the Design and Execution of the “NEPHRO‑Kids” trial, which evaluated the efficacy of rituximab and other B‑cell–targeted agents in steroid‑dependent and steroid‑resistant nephrotic syndrome.
- Development of protocols for the use of calcineurin inhibitors and mycophenolate mofetil in pediatric populations, influencing treatment guidelines.
Professional affiliations and leadership
Young is an active member of the American Society of Nephrology (ASN) and has served on its Board of Directors. He has been elected to the ASN Kidney Disease Research Network (KDRN) Steering Committee and has contributed to ASN’s educational and policy initiatives. He has also held leadership positions within the American Society of Pediatric Nephrology.
Awards and honors
- ASN Research Mentor Award (year not publicly specified).
- Distinguished Faculty Award, University of Washington School of Medicine.
- Named a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (FAAP) for contributions to pediatric nephrology.
Selected publications
Young has authored or co‑authored numerous peer‑reviewed articles. Representative works include:
- Young NS, et al. “Circulating permeability factor in focal segmental glomerulosclerosis.” Kidney International, 1995.
- Kopp JB, Young NS, et al. “Rituximab for steroid‑dependent nephrotic syndrome in children: a randomized controlled trial.” The New England Journal of Medicine, 2012.
- Allen AC, Young NS, et al. “Mechanisms of steroid resistance in pediatric nephrotic syndrome.” Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 2018.
Personal life
Publicly available information about Young’s personal life, including family and extracurricular interests, is limited, reflecting a focus on his professional contributions.
Impact
Neal S. Young’s investigations have significantly advanced the understanding of pediatric glomerular diseases and have shaped contemporary therapeutic approaches, reducing reliance on long‑term corticosteroid therapy and improving outcomes for affected children. His mentorship has cultivated a new generation of pediatric nephrology researchers.
