A study of the effect of SGLT2-inhibitors on diabetes and heart function following heart transplant

Dr Lisa Raven, The Garvan Institute of Medical Research

2022 PhD Scholarship

Years funded: 2023-2025

Heart transplantation is a lifesaving procedure that can prolong the life of a person with heart failure. It requires lifelong immunosuppression; however, these medications can cause complications including diabetes, kidney impairment, and stiffening of the transplanted heart. Excitingly, a new class of diabetes medications, the SGLT2 inhibitors, have recently been shown to have major benefits for the heart. SGLT2 inhibitors reduce the risk of death from heart disease in people with type 2 diabetes, improve heart function and reduce the likelihood of admission to hospital for heart failure. Interestingly, they also appear to exert this benefit in people without diabetes. In light of this evidence, it is possible that the SGLT2 inhibitors could improve the functionality of transplanted hearts. We will undertake a 12-month study of SGLT2 inhibitors in 100 patients who have undergone a heart transplant, to determine whether diabetes and other complications of immunosuppression medications can be prevented, and improve the lives of these patients.