Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have identified biomarkers that may forecast the chance of chronic kidney disease in patients who are hospitalized with acute kidney failure. This finding appears in research published in the Journal of Clinical Research.
Chronic kidney disease, also called CKD, is a condition where the kidneys slowly lose their ability to function. When CKD advances, patients might require dialysis or a kidney transplant. CKD arises from a mix of factors, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and genetic predisposition.
New data show that certain biomarkers detected in urine and blood can signal a patient’s risk of developing CKD after an episode of acute kidney injury. On average, acute kidney injury raises the likelihood of later CKD by three to eight times. This insight could lead to earlier intervention and strategies to slow or prevent CKD following acute kidney injury.
Key biomarkers identified include KIM-1 and MCP-1 proteins in urine and TNFRI in blood plasma. Higher levels of these markers were linked to a two- to three-fold increase in CKD risk. Interestingly, higher urinary UMOD protein concentrations were associated with about a 40% reduction in CKD risk.
Experts emphasize that these biomarkers offer a window into the kidney’s response after injury, presenting an opportunity for targeted monitoring and proactive treatment plans. By identifying patients at elevated risk early, clinicians can tailor follow-up care, adjust medications, and implement lifestyle interventions aimed at preserving kidney function. The study underscores the potential of integrating biomarker profiling into standard post-injury care to mitigate long-term kidney damage.
While the findings are promising, researchers note that additional work is needed to validate these biomarkers across diverse populations and clinical settings. Future studies may explore how these markers interact with other risk factors such as age, comorbid conditions, and the duration of the initial kidney injury. If confirmed, the biomarker approach could become a practical tool for clinicians seeking to reduce the burden of CKD after acute kidney injury.