Visceral Adipose Tissue and Liver Changes Associated With Semaglutide in CKD
This study is investigating how a medicine called semaglutide affects fat around important organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys in people with type 2 diabetes and kidney disease. We know obesity can lead to many health problems, including worsening kidney and liver function, and new diabetes medications like semaglutide can help with weight loss and improve these conditions. However, we don't fully understand how these drugs specifically change fat tissue to bring about these benefits. By studying these changes, researchers hope to learn more about how diseased fat tissue affects people with heart, liver, and kidney problems. Participants will have an MRI scan and answer questions about their health.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Obesity is a widespread health problem that can lead to many other conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart problems, and kidney disease. When you have extra body fat, especially around vital organs, it doesn't just sit there. Fat cells produce special chemicals called adipokines. While some are helpful when you're a healthy weight, in obesity, these chemicals can become harmful and cause ongoing inflammation in organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys, making them work less well.
Newer medications for type 2 diabetes, like semaglutide, are very good at controlling blood sugar. They also help people lose weight, which can improve how well your kidneys and liver work. However, we don't fully understand *how* these drugs specifically affect the fat tissue itself. This study wants to find out more about these effects. By understanding how semaglutide changes fat, researchers hope to discover new ways to help people with heart, liver, and kidney problems related to obesity.
Researchers are inviting adults who attend diabetes clinics at the University of Alberta to participate. The results of this study could help doctors better understand how to use these medications to protect and improve organ health in people with type 2 diabetes and kidney disease.
Key takeaways
- This study explores how semaglutide affects body fat and organs.
- It focuses on people with type 2 diabetes and kidney disease.
- The main test involved is an MRI scan to measure fat.
- Participation is a one-time visit and does not involve taking new medication.
- The research aims to improve understanding of how fat tissue affects health.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, participants must be 18 years old or older and have had type 2 diabetes for more than 18 months, along with chronic kidney disease (stages G1, G2, G3a, G3b, or G4). This includes people who are already taking semaglutide and those who are not.
You cannot take part if you are under 18, pregnant, breastfeeding, planning to get pregnant, or not using reliable contraception. You also can't join if you have very severe kidney disease (stage G5) or stage G4 kidney disease that requires dialysis. If you have certain mental health conditions that make it hard to understand the study, or if you've already been part of this specific trial, you won't be able to participate. You also can't join if you have known allergies to the study medication or related products.
Ultimately, you must willingly agree to take part and sign a consent form to show you understand and agree with what's involved.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have you had type 2 diabetes for over 18 months?
- Do you have chronic kidney disease (stages G1, G2, G3a, G3b, or G4)?
- Are you NOT pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant soon?
- Do you NOT have very severe kidney disease (stage G5) or stage G4 requiring dialysis?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to join this study, you will first meet with the study team to discuss everything in detail and sign a consent form. This form ensures you understand the study and agree to participate. You will also be asked some questions about your medical history, any medications you take, and basic information like your age, sex, weight, and height.
The main part of your involvement will be having an MRI scan. This scan will be done at the MRI Research Center, which is located in the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute. During this scan, they will measure the amount of fat around your heart, liver, and kidneys. They will also measure the fat content specifically in your liver. Apart from the initial discussion and the scan, there are no other visits, medications to take for the study, or long-term follow-up required as part of this research.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Mazankowski Alberta Heart InstituteVerified postcodeEdmonton, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a medication often used to help manage type 2 diabetes by controlling blood sugar and can also help with weight loss.
What is an MRI scan?
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a safe and painless scan that uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body.
Will I receive semaglutide as part of this study?
No, this study is observing people who may or may not already be taking semaglutide; it won't provide the medication to you.
Will I get my MRI results?
The study description doesn't specify if individual participants receive their MRI results. You can ask the study team about this.
How long will my participation take?
Your participation will involve one visit for the consent process, health questions, and the MRI scan. The exact duration of this visit can be discussed with the study team.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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