Understanding Metabolism in Polycystic Kidney Disease
Metabolic reprogramming and FGF21 signaling in kidney health and polycystic kidney diseases
['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11141598
This research explores how changes in kidney energy use contribute to polycystic kidney disease and how diet or other approaches might help.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11141598 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our kidneys normally use fats for energy, but in polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), they switch to using sugar, which seems to help cysts grow. This project aims to understand if boosting the kidney's ability to burn fats can slow down ADPKD progression. We will also look at how specific diets, like ketogenic diets, and certain signals in the body, such as FGF21, affect the disease. The goal is to uncover the detailed ways these metabolic changes impact ADPKD, which could lead to new ways to manage the condition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) who are interested in understanding the metabolic basis of their condition and potential future therapies would be ideal.
Not a fit: Patients without polycystic kidney disease or those not interested in metabolic approaches to treatment may not directly benefit from this specific line of inquiry.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new dietary or drug-based treatments that slow the progression of polycystic kidney disease and preserve kidney function.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies have shown that dietary changes, such as ketogenic diets, can slow cyst growth in models of polycystic kidney disease, but the exact mechanisms are not fully understood.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DAI, DAO-FU — JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: DAI, DAO-FU
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions: Adult Polycystic Kidney Disease