NIH-funded research R01 grant

Exploring a new treatment for kidney disease using a specific medication

Official title: Advancing ADPKD Treatment with GLP-1RA: A Study of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists' Efficacy, Safety, and Mechanism

Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11167850 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at whether a type of medication called GLP-1 receptor agonists can help slow down kidney problems in people with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), especially for those who find it hard to stick to other treatments because of side effects.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project startAugust 15, 2024
Project endMay 31, 2029
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$677,909
NIH project number5R01DK138915-02
Project IDNIH-11167850 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease.

Less likely to help

Patients with advanced kidney disease or those who do not have a diagnosis of ADPKD may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the effectiveness and safety of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) as a potential treatment for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). The study aims to understand how these medications can slow the progression of kidney disease, particularly in patients who may struggle with existing treatments due to side effects. By focusing on the relationship between body weight, insulin resistance, and kidney health, the research seeks to provide a pharmacological alternative to lifestyle changes that can be difficult to maintain. Patients will be monitored for changes in kidney volume and overall health throughout the trial.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could offer a new, effective treatment option for patients with ADPKD, potentially slowing disease progression and improving quality of life.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar pharmacological approaches in managing kidney disease, indicating potential for success in this research.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Colorado Denver
    Aurora, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Nowak, Kristen Lynn — University of Colorado Denver
  • Study coordinator: Nowak, Kristen Lynn

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.