Using MRI to measure kidney oxygen levels in early diabetic kidney disease
Official title: MRI-Based Renal Oximetry in Early Diabetic Kidney Disease
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10833573 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to check how well your kidneys are working using MRI technology, which could help catch problems early for people with diabetes before serious damage happens.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $195,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DK132556-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10833573 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have type-2 diabetes and are at risk for developing kidney disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have diabetes or those with advanced chronic kidney disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new method to assess kidney function in patients with early diabetic kidney disease using MRI technology. It focuses on measuring the renal metabolic rate of oxygen (MRO2), which can indicate kidney health before significant damage occurs. By employing a novel technique that captures key physiological parameters in a quick, non-invasive manner, the study aims to provide a more accurate and timely assessment of kidney function compared to traditional methods. This could lead to earlier interventions and better management of kidney health in diabetic patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enable earlier detection and treatment of kidney dysfunction in diabetic patients, potentially preventing the progression to chronic kidney disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using MRI techniques for assessing brain oxygen levels, suggesting that similar approaches for kidney assessment may also be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wehrli, Felix W — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Wehrli, Felix W
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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.