Identifying imaging biomarkers for diabetic kidney disease

Prognostic Imaging Biomarkers for Diabetic Kidney Disease

Observational University of Leeds · NCT03716401

This study is trying to find new ways to use MRI and ultrasound images to better understand and predict kidney problems in people with diabetes.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment500 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Leeds Academic / other
Locations7 sites (Turku and 6 other locations)
Trial IDNCT03716401 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to identify prognostic imaging biomarkers for diabetic kidney disease (DKD) using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ultrasound (US). Conducted across six European countries, it will involve a cross-sectional phase to establish associations and a longitudinal phase for prognostic evaluation. Participants will undergo standardized assessments, including demographic data, clinical history, and imaging procedures, with annual follow-ups for additional data collection. The study will also centralize biofluid samples for future biomarker validation.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 80 with Type 2 diabetes and an eGFR of 30 ml/min/1.73m2 or higher.

Not a fit: Patients with significant comorbidities, those on permanent dialysis, or with a life expectancy of less than one year may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved identification of patients at high risk for diabetic kidney disease, enabling timely interventions.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using imaging biomarkers for kidney disease, suggesting a potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosis Diabetes Type 2;
* eGFR \>= 30 ml/min/1.73m2;
* Able to provide informed consent;
* Age between 18 years and 80 years;
* Unchanged antidiabetic and antihypertensive medication for the past 3 months (not including dose changes).

Exclusion Criteria:

* Transplantation (except corneal);
* On permanent dialysis;
* Significant comorbidities with life expectancy of \< 1 year;
* Use of investigational drug within 1 month prior to screening;
* Known clinical history of urinary obstruction on renal US: either post-voiding residue over 100 ml, or pyelectasis;
* Known clinical history of aortic endoprosthesis at the renal level;
* Current pregnancy;
* History of Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C +;
* Use of antiretroviral medication;
* Known current or clinical history of renal or urinary tract malignancy;
* Concurrent other renal disease (suspected or proven);
* Cirrhotic liver disease, or non-cirrhotic chronic liver disease where ALT \>2 x upper limit of normal;
* Current metastatic malignancy;
* Current malignancy with expected survival \< study follow up period (4 years);
* Melanomatous skin cancer \< 5 years ago (fully resected melanoma \>5 years ago, i.e. surgical cure, can be recruited);
* Any other significant disease or disorder which, in the opinion of the investigators, may either put the patient at risk because of participation in the study, or may influence the result of the study, or the patient's ability to participate in the study;
* Cochlear Implant;
* Aneurysm Clips;
* Neurological stimulator;
* Implanted cardiac devices (ICD, PPM, loop recorders, or any others);
* Metal heart valve;
* History of metal foreign bodies in orbits;
* Other implanted metal device which prevents MR imaging;
* Known allergy to Gadolinium contrast;
* Claustrophobia;
* Weight exceeding 250 kg;
* \[Bari arm\] Absolute contraindications to percutaneous renal biopsy;
* \[Bari arm\] Bleeding diathesis;
* \[Bari arm\] Severe uncontrolled hypertension;
* \[Bari arm\] End stage renal disease with small hyperechoic kidneys;

Where this trial is running

Turku and 6 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Diabetic Kidney DiseaseMagnetic Resonance ImagingUltrasound ImagingBiomarkersPrognosis
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.