Grant Recipients 

Celebrating Our Heroes in PKD Research 

At the PKD Foundation of Canada, we are dedicated to funding innovative research that paves the way for better treatments and, ultimately, a cure for polycystic kidney disease. Our mission is made possible by the generous support of our donors, and the tireless efforts of our grant recipients—researchers and scientists who are leading the charge in PKD research. 

We are proud to showcase the remarkable work of our grant recipients. Their groundbreaking research is making a significant impact in the fight against PKD, and bringing hope to thousands of Canadians affected by this disease. 

2025 & 2026 Fellowship Recipient

Dr. Sol Carriazo, MD

Institution: University Health Network
Research Focus: Improving Risk Prediction in ADPKD Using Machine Learning

People with ADPKD know how unpredictable the disease can be. Some experience fast progression and early kidney failure, while others remain stable for years. Right now, it's difficult for doctors to know who will get worse and when, making it hard to decide who should start treatment, especially when some options are expensive, require frequent testing or come with serious side effects.

Dr. Sol Carriazo and her team are working to change that. Using medical data, advanced kidney imaging, and detailed genetic information from approximately 2,000 people living with ADPKD, they’ll apply artificial intelligence (AI) to detect patterns that traditional tools might miss. The goal is to build a more accurate way to predict how each person’s disease might progress.

In short, this research aims to give nephrologists better tools to provide more personalized care which will help people who need treatment get it earlier, and allow others to safely avoid unnecessary medication. This means fewer side effects, smarter use of healthcare resources, and most importantly, more clarity and peace of mind for patients and families.

This important work is funded through a joint fellowship from the PKD Foundation of Canada and the PKD Foundation (U.S.). Dr. Carriazo was chosen through a highly competitive application and peer-review process. The goal of the fellowship is to support promising researchers working to improve the lives of people affected by PKD.

2024 & 2025 Grant Recipient 

Dr. Marie Trudel, PhD 

Institution: Université de Montréal 
Research Focus: Polycystin1/PKD1 Targeted Polycystic Liver Disease: Anatomic Remodeling, Molecular Mechanisms and Targets 

The study aims to investigate the mechanisms behind polycystic liver disease (PLD) in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), specifically targeting the Polycystin-1 (PC1) protein.

PLD often significantly impacts patient quality of life, even more than kidney cysts. Current non-pharmacologic treatments are only partially effective and temporary. Preliminary studies using mouse models have shown that mutations in the PKD1 gene and altered PC1 trafficking lead to severe liver issues.

By understanding the molecular pathways involved in hepatic cyst formation, this research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets, which could lead to the development of effective liver treatments for ADPKD patients, significantly improving their quality of life. 

Watch a video presentation of Dr. Trudel explaining her research project here on our YouTube channel.

2022 & 2023 Grant Recipient 

Dr. Harold Aukema, MD

Institution: University of Manitoba 
Research Focus: Effect of Whole Foods Compared to Ultra-Processed Foods in PKD 

Dr. Aukema's research has the potential to provide insight into the dietary strategies that contribute to slowing the progression of PKD. 

A Look Back at Past Recipients 

Impact of Your Support 

Your donations are directly funding these critical research projects and many more. Each grant recipient is chosen through a rigorous selection process, ensuring that only the most promising and impactful research receives our support. By contributing to the PKD Foundation of Canada, you are investing in the future of PKD research and helping to bring us closer to a world without PKD. 

Together, we can make a difference. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to ending PKD. 

Join Us in the Fight 

Are you inspired by the work of our grant recipients? There are many ways you can get involved and support our mission: 

• Donate: Your financial contributions fund life-changing research. 

• Fundraise: Host an event or participate in our Walk to END PKD. 

• Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to help our foundation grow. 

• Advocate: Raise awareness and advocate for better policies and funding for PKD research. 

Together, we will END PKD.