Active not recruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Immune Function in Acute Kidney Injury

This study aims to understand how the body's immune system responds when someone experiences sudden kidney failure, known as Acute Kidney Injury (AKI). AKI can seriously affect kidney function and how well someone recovers. Current information mainly comes from animal studies, and we need to learn more about what happens in humans. Researchers will study specific immune responses and tiny genetic signals (microRNAs) in hospital patients with and without AKI. The goal is to identify early warning signs and better ways to manage AKI, ultimately improving patient care, recovery, and preventing serious long-term problems. This is an observational study, meaning participants will be monitored without receiving any new treatments as part of the research.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Sponsor

Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust

Enrolment target

120

Start

01 Jun 2013

Estimated completion

01 Dec 2026

Acute Kidney Failure

What is this study about?

When your kidneys suddenly stop working properly, it's called Acute Kidney Injury (AKI). This can be a very serious condition. While your body's immune system is usually there to protect you from harm, in AKI, its response to the kidney damage might actually make things worse, potentially slowing down recovery and affecting other organs in your body.

Most of our current understanding of how the immune system reacts during AKI comes from studies in animals. However, human bodies can react differently, and we need much more information specific to people. Understanding these human immune responses, and finding early ways to detect them, is really important for developing better treatments and improving how patients with AKI are cared for, helping to prevent long-term health issues and improve survival.

This study will carefully examine the immune responses and certain tiny molecules (called microRNAs) in different groups of adult patients in the hospital. The aim is to see if there are particular immune reactions or changes in these molecules that are specific to people with AKI. By learning more about these processes, researchers hope to find new ways to diagnose AKI earlier and develop strategies to help people recover better and reduce the overall impact of this serious kidney condition.

Key takeaways

Researches how the immune system reacts during sudden kidney failure (AKI).
Aims to improve diagnosis and care for AKI patients.
It's an observational study – no new treatments are given.
Involves collecting information and samples during normal hospital care.
Helps scientists understand AKI better for future patients.
Participation is voluntary and won't affect your medical care.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over who are currently in the hospital. This includes patients in intensive care. They are interested in people who have specific kidney issues or other medical conditions.

You might be able to take part if you have certain types of sudden kidney failure (AKI stages II or III) with inflammation, or AKI without inflammation. They are also looking for patients who have widespread inflammation but normal kidney function, or patients who have recently had major surgery and have healthy kidneys without infection.

You wouldn't be able to join this study if you've had a kidney transplant, are taking medicines that suppress your immune system (other than standard steroids), have a type of blood cancer, or if you are a Jehovah's Witness.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Are you currently in the hospital?
Do you have certain types of sudden kidney failure (AKI) or widespread inflammation?
Have you not had a kidney transplant?
Are you not taking strong immune-suppressing drugs?
Do you not have certain blood cancers?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

This is an observational study, which means you will not receive any new or experimental treatments as part of this research. Instead, researchers will collect information and samples from you while you are already receiving your usual hospital care. This might involve blood tests and other assessments that are part of your routine medical care. The study aims to look at how your immune system is working and changes in specific molecules over time. There are no extra hospital visits required beyond your normal medical appointments. The total duration of your participation would depend on how long you are in the hospital, but it focuses on gathering information during your acute illness.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study will not involve any new medical procedures or treatments. Any blood samples taken will be part of your routine clinical care, so there are no additional physical risks beyond what you would experience as a patient in the hospital. The primary benefit for you is the contribution you make to scientific knowledge, which could lead to better understanding and care for future patients with kidney problems. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this decision will not affect the quality of your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Guy's & St Thomas Foundation Hospital
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is 'Acute Kidney Injury' (AKI)?

AKI is when your kidneys suddenly stop working properly. It can range from mild to very serious.

What is an 'observational study'?

It means researchers will just watch and collect information about your health and treatment, but you won't be given any new drugs or treatments for the study.

Will I have to take new medicine?

No, this study does not involve giving you any new medicines. Your treatment will remain as decided by your regular medical team.

How long will I be in the study?

Your participation involves collecting information during your hospital stay, so there's no fixed time beyond your recovery period as a patient.

Who can I talk to if I have more questions?

The hospital staff involved in the study or your medical team can answer any further questions you may have.