Simple Blood Test Could Reveal Kidney Disease Earlier

Detecting kidney damage early is challenging, as current tests rely on changes in urine output and creatinine levels, which appear hours or even days after injury. Researchers are now developing a simple blood test that can identify kidney damage much earlier, enabling timely intervention and easier ongoing monitoring.

The diagnostic tests are being developed by RMIT University (Melbourne, Australia) in partnership with Nexsen Limited (Sydney, Australia). The collaboration leverages RMIT's established NanoBioSensing platform technology to create point-of-care tests capable of identifying AKI within hours and supporting at-home monitoring of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The tests use patented DNA aptamers designed to detect specific biomarkers linked to structural kidney damage, allowing clinicians to investigate the root cause of injury rather than relying solely on kidney function metrics.

The team's ultrasensitive diagnostic technology aims to detect damage much earlier than current methods, which depend on creatinine accumulation or reduced urine output. Current pathology-based tests can take between six and 24 hours to detect abnormalities, delaying life-saving treatment. By targeting biomarkers associated with different kidney structures, the new test is designed to provide a direct measure of tissue injury, offering a faster, more reliable diagnostic tool for healthcare professionals in critical care settings.

In addition to hospital use, the technology aims to empower patients with chronic kidney disease to manage their condition at home, much like blood glucose monitoring for diabetics. The innovation could improve outcomes for more than 850 million people living with kidney conditions worldwide by preventing AKI from developing into irreversible CKD. RMIT and Nexsen are also applying the same biosensing platform to other diagnostics, such as Group B Streptococcus (GBS) testing in pregnant women, demonstrating its versatility for global healthcare applications.

“A new test that can directly investigate the damage to different parts of the kidneys will be a real game-changer,” said Professor Shekhar Kumta. “These new blood tests will be able to diagnose the root cause of the acute kidney injury early, which will play an important role in more clearly defining the optimal clinical management plan for patients.”

Related Links:
RMIT University
Nexsen Limited