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New Delhi, Aug 15: A pioneering study by researchers at The University of Manchester suggests that routine blood or urine tests could soon offer doctors a powerful new tool to predict the course of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The findings, published Friday in the American Journal of Nephrology, shed light on specific biomarkers that reveal the severity and expected progression of CKD.
In a large-scale analysis, scientists evaluated Kidney Injury Molecule-1 (KIM-1)—a key indicator of renal damage—in both blood and urine. Results from 2,581 individuals with non-dialysis CKD, drawn from 16 nephrology centres across the UK, showed that elevated KIM-1 levels corresponded to a higher risk of both death and kidney failure.
The research team, led by Dr Thomas McDonnell, also studied 21 other biological markers in 2,884 patients last month, focusing on processes such as kidney damage, fibrosis, inflammation, and cardiovascular disease. Unlike conventional kidney function tests, these advanced indicators reveal the underlying mechanisms driving CKD, potentially unlocking more tailored therapeutic options.
“The progression of chronic kidney disease is highly variable between people, so it’s difficult to predict who will deteriorate rapidly,” said Dr McDonnell. “Our work raises the prospect of developing simple blood or urine tests that provide doctors and patients with invaluable risk assessments.”
The new prognostic models, closely aligned with the biological processes underlying CKD, could transform patient care. Those identified as high-risk may benefit from early intervention and specialist attention, while low-risk patients may avoid unnecessary medications or treatments.
Experts hope that these discoveries will not only improve early detection and precise risk assessment, but also lead to more effective, personalized strategies for managing chronic kidney disease in the future.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of chronic kidney disease or any other medical condition.
