Using pulsed ultrasound to reduce inflammation and prevent acute kidney injury
Official title: Proof of concept and feasibility in humans for pulsed ultrasound treatment to reduce inflammation and risk of AKI
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10980616 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether pulsed ultrasound can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of kidney problems in patients, and if you join, you might receive this gentle treatment while we keep an eye on how your kidneys are doing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $311,538 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK137937-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10980616 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are at risk for or have experienced acute kidney injury.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with chronic kidney disease or those who do not meet the age and health criteria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of pulsed ultrasound as a non-invasive treatment to reduce inflammation and the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients. The approach is based on previous findings that ultrasound can activate the body's inflammatory reflex, potentially leading to protective effects on the kidneys. By focusing on the mechanisms involved, the study aims to establish the feasibility of this treatment in humans, addressing a significant gap in current AKI management. Patients participating in this research may receive ultrasound treatments while being monitored for changes in kidney function and inflammation levels.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel, non-invasive treatment option for patients at risk of acute kidney injury.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of ultrasound in this context is novel, preliminary animal studies have shown promising results in reducing inflammation and preventing kidney injury.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Okusa, Mark Douglas — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Okusa, Mark Douglas
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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.