Non-invasive assessment of kidney transplant condition using advanced imaging techniques

Non-invasive Evaluation of Graft Condition in Adult Patients With Kidney Transplant Using Ultrasound Localization Microscopy and Multispectral Optoacoustic Tomography

University of Erlangen-Nürnberg Medical School · NCT06472947

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 typeObservational
Enrollment10 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Erlangen-Nürnberg Medical School (other)
Locations1 site (Erlangen, Bavaria)
Trial IDNCT06472947 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

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.

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.

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 performed: While non-invasive imaging techniques have been explored, this specific application of MSOT and ULM in kidney transplant assessment is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Erlangen, Bavaria

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Kidney Transplant, Kidney Biopsy

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.