Investigating how wheat gluten affects kidney disease progression

The Role of Wheat-Gluten in Polycystic Kidney Disease

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-10861073

This study is looking at how eating wheat gluten compared to animal proteins might affect kidney health and cyst growth in people with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), hoping to find dietary changes that could help slow down the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10861073 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the impact of dietary wheat gluten on the progression of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). It examines how different protein sources, particularly wheat gluten versus animal-based proteins, influence kidney cyst growth and inflammation in preclinical models. By analyzing the effects of these diets on kidney function and cyst development, the study aims to identify dietary modifications that could slow disease progression. Patients may benefit from insights into how their diet can affect their kidney health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD).

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of ADPKD or those who do not consume gluten may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to dietary recommendations that help slow the progression of kidney disease in affected patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that dietary protein composition can significantly influence kidney disease progression, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Adult Polycystic Kidney DiseaseAutosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.