Non-invasive assessment of kidney transplant condition using advanced imaging techniques
Official title: Non-invasive Evaluation of Graft Condition in Adult Patients With Kidney Transplant Using Ultrasound Localization Microscopy and Multispectral Optoacoustic Tomography
Run by University of Erlangen-Nürnberg Medical School · NCT06472947 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing new imaging techniques to see if they can help check the health of kidney transplants in adults without needing to do invasive biopsies.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 10 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Erlangen-Nürnberg Medical School Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Erlangen, Bavaria) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 18, 2024 |
| Main results expected | January 18, 2028 |
| Study ends | January 18, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | March 4, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06472947 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adult patients who have undergone kidney transplantation and are indicated for a biopsy based on clinical routine.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are not indicated for a biopsy or those with contraindications to the imaging techniques will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the condition of kidney transplants in adults through non-invasive methods, specifically using Multispectral Optoacoustic Tomography (MSOT) and Ultrasound Localization Microscopy (ULM). The goal is to identify new markers that can provide insights into transplant health, potentially reducing the need for invasive kidney biopsies. Given the high stakes of kidney health and the risks associated with biopsies, this approach aims to enhance patient care and monitoring. The study will involve adult participants who are already indicated for a biopsy as part of their routine clinical care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce the need for invasive kidney biopsies, improving patient comfort and safety.
How similar studies have gone: While non-invasive imaging techniques have been explored, this specific application of MSOT and ULM in kidney transplant assessment is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * kidney transplant * indication for biopsy set in clinical routine * minimum 18 years of age * written consent Exclusion Criteria: * allergy against contrast agents/ SonoVue * tatoos in examined areas * contraindication against SonoVue * pregnant women * breast feeding women
Where it's running
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Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine
Erlangen, Bavaria, Germany Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ferdinand Knieling, PD Dr. Dr. — FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg
- Study coordinator: Ferdinand Hannah Knieling, PD Dr. Dr.
- Email: ferdinand.knieling@uk-erlangen.de
- Phone: 0049 9131 85 33118
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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This effort will try catheter-based angioplasty and advanced imaging to see if they help kidney transplant recipients with graft dysfunction or stubborn high blood pressure from possible transplant blood‑vessel problems.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.