NCT06325644 · Ohio State University
Well-Formulated Ketogenic Diet Polycystic Kidney Disease
What this study is about
This is a forward-looking study to determine ketogenic diet effect on htTKV, GFR, microalbuminuria. This is a single-center study of 20 patients with ADPKD and deemed high risk for progression to ESRD. This determined by combination of features of ADPKD and htTKV as assessed by prior computed tomography (CT) or MRI.
View original scientific description
This is a prospective study to determine ketogenic diet effect on htTKV, GFR, microalbuminuria. This is a single-center study of 20 patients with ADPKD and deemed high risk for progression to ESRD. This determined by combination of features of ADPKD and htTKV as assessed by prior computed tomography (CT) or MRI. Patients will be recruited from the Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Clinic at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Enrolled patients will have MRI for htTKV, urinary studies, blood tests at baseline, 6 months, and 52 weeks. Blood for GFR will be assessed three times over the course of the study including baseline, 6 months, and 1 year. Participants will follow ketogenic diet for 52 weeks. Investigatory diet team will manage the ketogenic diet.
Interventions
OTHER
Ketogenic Diet
The diet intervention will start after all baseline testing is complete
BIOLOGICAL
Ketone/Glucose Monitoring
KetoMojo hand-held glucometer will be used daily to monitor dietary intervention adherence.
BIOLOGICAL
CGM/CKM
Continuous Ketone/Glucose Monitor will be applied at the start of Test Day 1. The sensor will be checked by the study team at each test day and will be removed and replaced by a fresh sensor at \~2- week intervals during the study. The sensor will be removed at the end of the final test day.
BIOLOGICAL
Blood Draw
Blood samples will be collected according to the schedule in Figure 1
OTHER
Body Composition
DEXA Scanning will be done pre-, mid-, and post- intervention.
OTHER
Change in glomerular filtration rate (mg/mmol) via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) .
Changes in glomerular filtration rate will be assessed via magnetic resonance imagining conducted by trained professionals. MRI imaging analyses will determine cardiac function. Trained imaging professionals will analyze the images to determine overall change (mg/mmol).
Primary outcome measures
Finger Stick Beta-Hydroxybutyrate
Time frame: Up to ~ 52 Weeks
changes in fasting ketone levels.
Finger Stick Glucose
Time frame: Up to ~ 52 Weeks
changes in fasting glucose levels.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age 18-65 years old
- Diagnosis of ADPKD by imaging and/or genetic testing
- GFR ≥ 25 mg/dl
- Patients at risk for rapid progression of ADPKD: Mayo Class 1C-1E along with any other high risk features including early decline in GFR, hypertension onset ≤ 35 years of age, urologic events ≤ 35 years of age, PKD 1 truncating mutation and PROPKD score of 4 or higher as determined by the treating physician
- No changes of medications within the last three months.
- Able to comply with dietary intervention
- Ability to sign informed consent
Exclusion criteria
- Patients currently being treated with Tolvaptan
- Diagnosed with diabetes.
- Contraindications to MRI
- Ketogenic diet within the last three months
- Severe kidney disease with GFR \< 25 mg/dl
- Unable to purchase food for the diet intervention
- Gastrointestinal disorders that will interfere with diet intervention
- Chronic alcohol or drug abuse
Where
- Columbus, Ohio
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 14, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations