Super-resolution ultrasound to image tiny blood vessels in kidney transplants
Characterization of microvasculature in kidney transplant by super-resolution ultrasound imaging
A new ultrasound method will be used to see and measure tiny blood vessels in transplanted kidneys to help people with kidney transplants monitor graft health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11321170 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project is developing a stronger ultrasound method called super-resolution ultrasound imaging (SRUI) to visualize and measure the tiny blood vessels inside transplanted kidneys. The team will improve signal processing and localization methods and then use SRUI in patients with kidney transplants to collect images and compare them with clinical pathology. A pilot patient study already showed SRUI measurements match closely with tissue pathology, and researchers will refine the technique for real-world clinical settings. The goal is to create a noninvasive tool for more frequent and accurate monitoring of allograft injury without relying solely on biopsies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults who have received a kidney transplant and are willing to undergo ultrasound imaging and routine clinical follow-up at the study site.
Not a fit: People without kidney transplants, those who cannot undergo ultrasound imaging, or those unwilling/unable to travel to the study center are unlikely to benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could allow earlier, noninvasive detection and monitoring of transplant injury to guide treatment and improve long-term graft survival.
How similar studies have performed: Early pilot data show strong correlation with pathology (r ≥ 0.9), indicating promise, but the technique is still novel and being optimized for clinical use.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- Mayo Clinic Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huang, Chengwu — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Huang, Chengwu
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.