Monitoring kidney transplant rejection using blood tests

Trifecta-Kidney cfDNA-MMDx Study: Comparing the DD-cfDNA Test to MMDx Microarray Test, Central HLA Antibody Test, and Histology.

Observational University of Alberta · NCT04239703

This study is testing if measuring certain DNA levels in the blood can help doctors better detect kidney transplant rejection in patients who are already having biopsies.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment300 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Alberta Academic / other
Locations31 sites (Tampa, Florida and 30 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04239703 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the relationship between donor-derived cell-free DNA (DD-cfDNA) levels and HLA antibodies in the blood of kidney transplant recipients. It seeks to improve the detection of kidney transplant rejection by utilizing the Molecular Microscope® Diagnostic System (MMDx) alongside the Prospera® test, which quantifies DD-cfDNA through advanced sequencing techniques. The study will involve kidney transplant patients who are undergoing biopsies for clinical reasons, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of rejection and injury. By comparing traditional methods with molecular diagnostics, the study hopes to enhance the accuracy of rejection detection.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are kidney transplant recipients who are undergoing a biopsy for clinical indications.

Not a fit: Patients who decline participation, are unable to give informed consent, or are multiple organ recipients may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate and timely detection of kidney transplant rejection, improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using molecular diagnostics for transplant rejection, indicating that this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* All kidney transplant recipients undergoing a kidney biopsy for clinical indications, as determined by their physician or surgeon, will be eligible to enroll in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients will be excluded from the study if they decline participation or are unable to give informed consent or multiple organ recipients.

Where this trial is running

Tampa, Florida and 30 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 Kidney Transplant Rejectiondonor derived cell-free DNAbloodkidney biopsy
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.