To address the rising global incidence of diabetes and kidney disease, Professor Ｖin-Cent Wu from the Nephrology Department at NTU Hospital is leading a team focused on improving treatment strategies for patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) and acute kidney disease (AKD), particularly those with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Recent research indicates that GLP-1 receptor agonists can significantly reduce mortality and the risk of cardiorenal complications in these patients.
Acute kidney injury is a common complication in diabetic patients, and acute kidney disease represents a critical stage following AKI that can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Studies show that the mortality rate and risk of kidney disease in AKD patients are significantly higher than in non-AKD patients, highlighting the importance of timely intervention to prevent the progression to CKD.
To prevent the progression of acute kidney disease to chronic kidney disease, long-term health management of patients is essential, especially for those with diabetes. Research has demonstrated that sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors play a significant role in preventing the transition from AKD to CKD, helping to slow renal function decline and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications.
GLP-1 receptor agonists not only effectively control blood sugar levels but also protect the heart and kidneys through mechanisms such as weight loss, blood pressure reduction, and inflammation control, offering potential individualized treatment options for diabetic patients with acute kidney disease. Studies show that SGLT2 inhibitors provide significant renal protection in diabetic patients with acute kidney injury or AKD, reducing the risk of major renal adverse events and cardiovascular events while preventing the progression to CKD.
The team will continue its research to explore the potential of GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors in personalized treatment, aiming to provide better therapeutic options for patients with diabetes and kidney disease and improve their long-term outcomes.
These studies highlight the promise of GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors in diabetic patients, with the potential to become core medications in personalized treatment, significantly improving the survival rates and quality of life for patients with acute kidney disease.
Link to the paper: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-50199-y
Source: https://www.ntu.edu.tw/spotlight/2024/2317_20241030.html