Using MRI to detect kidney scarring and predict kidney function decline

Detection of Renal Fibrosis and Prediction of Kidney Function Decline: The Role of MRI and Markers of Accelerated Renal Ageing (MARS)

University Hospital, Akershus · NCT04625140

This study is testing if MRI can help find kidney scarring and see if it can predict how kidney function might decline over time.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment72 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Akershus (other)
Locations1 site (Oslo, Lørenskog)
Trial IDNCT04625140 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the effectiveness of renal MRI in detecting fibrosis in the kidneys and its correlation with kidney function. It aims to establish how well MRI biomarkers can predict the decline in kidney function over time. Additionally, the study will assess the relationship between renal MRI findings and markers of renal aging found in blood, urine, and tissue samples. By utilizing non-invasive MRI techniques, the study seeks to provide a comprehensive assessment of renal fibrosis without the risks associated with traditional biopsy methods.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients over 18 years old who are scheduled for a kidney biopsy at the Department of Nephrology, Akershus University Hospital.

Not a fit: Patients who cannot provide informed consent, have claustrophobia, or possess incompatible implanted metal devices will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a safer, non-invasive method for monitoring kidney health and predicting kidney function decline in patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using MRI techniques for assessing renal conditions, suggesting this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

- Patients over 18 years of age, who is scheduled for a kidney biopsy for diagnostic purposes at the Department of Nephrology, Akershus University Hospital will be invited to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients who are not able to understand information in order to give informed consent.
* Patients with claustrophobia.
* Patients with implanted metal devices which are not compatible with MRI.

Where this trial is running

Oslo, Lørenskog

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 Scarring, MRI

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.