Abstract: FR-PO1208
GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Kidney Transplant Recipients with Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes: A Case Report
Session Information
- Transplantation: Clinical - Rejection, Biomarkers, and Pharmacology
October 23, 2026 | Location: Exhibit Hall A, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Transplantation
- 2002 Transplantation: Clinical
Authors
- Pervez, Aqsa, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan, United States
- Rajendran, Luckshi, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan, United States
- Zdanowski, Melissa, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan, United States
- Farouji, Abdelhadi, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan, United States
- Prashar, Rohini, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan, United States
- Kim, Dean Y., Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan, United States
Introduction
Obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are commonly known risk factors for the onset and progression of CKD. They are also known risk factors for adverse outcomes following kidney transplantation and can lead to graft dysfunction and failure. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists have shown excellent results in managing diabetes, obesity, and chronic kidney disease. Their role in the context of kidney transplant recipients is less established but may have significant impact on long –term allograft outcomes.
Case Description
We present the case of a 66-year-old female with ESRD secondary to T2DM who underwent deceased donor kidney transplantation. Her post-transplant course was complicated by delayed graft function, recurrent urinary tract infections, BK virus nephropathy, and progressive weight gain, ultimately leading to graft failure requiring initiation of hemodialysis, almost 3 years post-transplant. She remained dialysis-dependent for almost 2 years, with subsequent weight gain and decreased urine output.
While on dialysis, she was started on the GLP-1 receptor agonist semaglutide, which led to significant weight loss. This was followed by increased urine output, 19 months after starting dialysis, and a marked decrease in pre-dialysis creatinine, allowing discontinuation of dialysis eventually. Biopsy after dialysis cessation showed a viable graft without evidence of rejection or acute injury. The patient was resumed on immunosuppression with cyclosporine and prednisone and is maintaining an excellent allograft function with creatinine of 1.9 mg/dl.
Discussion
This case highlights the potential benefit of GLP-1 receptor agonists in kidney transplant recipients with obesity and T2DM, complementing their established effects on weight loss and glycemic control and their broader renoprotective properties. As evidence continues to emerge regarding metabolic and renal outcomes with GLP-1 receptor agonists in the kidney transplant population, further study is needed to better define their safety, optimal patient selection, and impact on long-term allograft outcomes.