06/18/2026
PKD Research Gains Momentum in Congress
A newly introduced bill in Congress, the PKD Cures Act, aims to expand and intensify federal research into Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD), one of the most common inherited kidney disorders. The legislation would direct the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to increase its focus on PKD research, with the goal of accelerating the development of better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
Polycystic Kidney Disease causes fluid-filled cysts to grow within the kidneys, often leading to enlarged kidneys, high blood pressure, chronic pain, and eventual kidney failure. PKD is responsible for approximately 10% of kidney failure cases in patients under age 65 and affects families across multiple generations. While the proposed legislation does not specify a funding amount, advocates view it as an important step toward increasing awareness, research investment, and hope for the millions affected by PKD worldwide.
Source: NBC 5 Chicago report featuring comments from Dr. Arlene Chapman, University of Chicago Medicine, and the PKD Foundation. ART: