The Future of PKD Research

For over 20 years, this conference has presented the most recent research on genetics, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of polycystic kidney disease (PKD) and its related disorders. 

Now is a particularly promising time for PKD research. The FDA has approved the first gene therapies for inherited human diseases, raising hopes that gene therapy for PKD may be on the horizon. Whole genome sequencing has begun identifying novel human cystogenes that are providing new insights, such as the emerging roles of ER homeostasis and mitochondrial metabolism. Human kidney organoids are being used as in vitro models of PKD and to screen for new drug therapies. Studies using cryo-EM have elucidated the structure and mechanisms of action of polycystins. These factors and more indicate an exciting time for this field of study.

This conference will bring together PKD investigators from a wide range of different research areas together and promote cross-disciplinary discussion and collaboration. Early-career researchers and those from historically excluded groups are especially encouraged to attend.

Goals and Takeaways:

· How recent advances in gene therapy, gene editing, structural biology, and RNA biology may be applied to PKD.

· The genetic causes of PKD, including the roles of atypical inheritance, gene dosage effects, and genetic modifiers.

· Signaling pathways that are disrupted in PKD (calcium, cAMP, Wnt, notch, hedgehog, hippo), cilia/centrosome biology, and cell cycle control.

· The application of novel methodologies and therapies to assess and test disease progression.

Program Topics

· Human Cystogenes

· ARPKD and Related Ciliopathies

· Novel Insights into Polycystin Biology

· Advances in PKD Modeling

· Omics of PKD

· Signaling Pathways in PKD

· Novel Therapeutic Approaches

· PKD Clinical Trials

· Health Disparities and PKD Research

Workshops

A Meet the Expert session will provide early-career scientists new to the PKD field an opportunity to meet with experts in the field who will discuss novel and/or controversial topics presented at the conference.  

A Career Development Workshop will feature a panel for graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and early-stage investigators, providing practical information and helpful advice for transitions to independent research careers. The panelists will be broadly representative with information on career advancement and options in academia, industry, publishing, government, and foundations.