Scientists from Johns Hopkins University have discovered biomarkers that can predict the likelihood of chronic kidney disease in patients hospitalized for acute kidney failure. Research published Journal of Clinical Research.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD), also known as chronic kidney failure, is a disease in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to function properly. As a result, the person may need dialysis or a kidney transplant. CKD can be caused by a variety of factors, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and heredity.
A new study has shown that high levels of specific biomarkers found in urine and blood can predict a patient’s likelihood of developing CKD after acute kidney injury. On average, acute kidney injury increases the risk of developing CKD later in life by three to eight times. The discovery will help prevent or slow the development of CKD in patients after acute kidney injury.
Biomarkers identified by scientists include KIM-1 and MCP-1 proteins in urine and TNFRI in blood plasma. The increase in their concentrations was associated with a two- to three-fold increase in CKD risk. Concomitantly, an increase in urinary UMOD protein concentration was associated with a 40% reduction in CKD risk.