RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

DYNAMic Renal Assessment: NOvel Methods to Assess KIDNEY Functional Reserve

This study, called "DYNAMic Renal Assessment," is exploring new and easier ways to measure how well kidneys work. Current tests often don’t show a problem until a significant amount of kidney function is lost. We know that healthy kidneys can work harder when needed, like after a high-protein meal. This ability is called 'renal reserve.' If this reserve is low, it might be an early sign of kidney issues, even when regular tests look normal. This study aims to compare two new methods of checking this 'dynamic' kidney function against the standard way. The goal is to find more practical methods that could help identify kidney problems earlier, allowing for quicker action to protect kidney health. The intervention being looked at is Dapagliflozin, a medication already used for kidney or heart conditions.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

King's College Hospital NHS Trust

Enrolment target

Start

14 Dec 2023

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2027

Chronic Kidney Diseases

What is this study about?

When we talk about kidney health, most people think about a test called 'GFR' or 'glomerular filtration rate.' This is typically measured using a blood test called 'serum creatinine.' However, the problem with creatinine is that it often doesn't show a clear problem until a lot of kidney function has already been lost — sometimes up to half! This means that by the time a regular test indicates an issue, the disease could be quite advanced. This study is trying to find better, earlier ways to spot kidney problems.

Think of your kidneys like an engine. A healthy engine can work harder and temporarily boost its performance when you put a demand on it. Similarly, healthy kidneys can increase their activity by up to 25% when challenged, for example, after a big meal with lots of protein. This ability to work harder is called 'renal reserve.' If your kidneys can't respond to this challenge, it might signal an early problem, much like a heart stress test can show issues before you have a heart attack. Losing this reserve is often an early sign that kidney problems are developing or getting worse.

Currently, measuring this renal reserve involves quite a detailed process, often involving special substances and controlled meals. This study wants to compare these traditional, more complex methods with two newer, potentially simpler ways of testing how kidneys respond. By finding easier and more practical tests, doctors might be able to identify kidney issues much earlier than they do now. This could lead to earlier treatment and better ways to protect kidney health over time.

Key takeaways

Aims to find earlier and more practical ways to detect kidney problems.
Compares new kidney function tests with current methods.
Focuses on 'renal reserve' – your kidneys' ability to work harder.
May involve taking a medication called Dapagliflozin.
Aimed at helping people with specific kidney conditions or prior kidney donation.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for people who fit specific criteria. You might be able to join if you have Sickle Cell disease that affects your kidneys, or if you've previously donated a kidney to someone else. You also need to be at least 40 years old. Importantly, you shouldn't have any known allergies or reasons why you shouldn't take the study medication, called Dapagliflozin.

There are also some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join the study. For example, if you are under 40 years old, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you won't be able to take part. Also, if you are currently involved in another research study that involves new treatments, that would stop you from joining this one. The researchers also need to make sure you fully understand what the study involves and are happy to give your permission to take part.

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 at least 40 years old?
Do you have Sickle Cell disease affecting your kidneys, or have you donated a kidney?
Are you NOT pregnant or breastfeeding?
Are you NOT currently part of another clinical trial for a new treatment?
Do you have no known allergies to the study medication (Dapagliflozin)?
Are you willing and able to understand and agree to participate?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you would undergo specific tests to measure your kidney function, including the special 'stress tests' that check your kidney reserve. These tests might involve having blood samples taken and possibly collecting urine. You would also be given Dapagliflozin, a medication, and your response would be monitored. The study aims to compare the new testing methods against the existing ones. The total duration of your participation in the study, including all visits and follow-ups, would be explained to you in detail by the study team, but it's focused on assessing these tests rather than long-term treatment outcomes.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could potentially help advance our understanding of kidney disease, possibly leading to earlier detection and better treatments for others in the future. You would also have your kidney health closely monitored by specialists. As with any study involving medication, there's always a chance of side effects, though the medication used, Dapagliflozin, is already approved and widely used. There's also the time commitment required for clinic visits and tests. Remember, you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

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

King's College Hospital
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'renal reserve'?

It's your kidney's ability to work harder when needed, like after a meal. Healthy kidneys have this extra capacity.

Why can't current kidney tests spot problems earlier?

Current tests often only show a problem when a significant amount of kidney function has already been lost.

What is Dapagliflozin?

It's a medication that is already used to help manage certain kidney or heart conditions, or diabetes.

Will I have to eat a special meal for the test?

Some tests for renal reserve involve eating a protein-rich meal or similar, to see how your kidneys react.

What is a 'feasibility study'?

It means the study is mainly checking if these new testing methods are practical and possible to use in real life.

How to find out more

Kate Bramham, Doctor

kch-tr.research@nhs.net 0203 299 9000 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.