Erasmus MC nephrologist Mehdi Saleh wants to better predict the course of the disease in people with polycystic kidneys. It is suspected that the deposition of salt crystals in the kidneys may provide an indication of the rate of deterioration of kidney function. If true, simple treatment with potassium citrate may be possible.
Saleh’s research is based on data from more than 600 patients with polycystic kidneys from the DIPAK study, a large study conducted at 4 centers. He hopes to find a biomarker in urine samples to better predict kidney failure in cystic kidneys. Additionally, Saleh wants to investigate a smaller study into whether potassium citrate (citric acid) — in the form of dietary supplements or vegetables and fruits — could play a role in treating these patients.
Previous research has shown that citrate partially prevents crystal formation and that a low concentration of urinary citrate can be an indicator of rapid decline in kidney function. Saleh believes that eating more fruits and vegetables can affect the salts in the body and thus slow down or even prevent kidney failure. If potential beneficial effects of citric acid are found, they could be definitively confirmed in a larger study.
Saleh will receive an Innovation Grant for his research from the Kidney Foundation’s Kolff Support Program.
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