AuthorisedHuman Pharmacology (Phase I)- OtherInterventional

T cell imaging in kidney transplantation (TIK)

This research, called TIK, is looking at how a special type of scan can help us understand what happens after a kidney transplant. Specifically, it uses a technique called PET scanning with a tiny amount of a special substance to see immune cells (T cells) in different parts of the body, including the transplanted kidney. The main goal is to compare what these scans show in people whose bodies are rejecting the new kidney, versus those who aren't experiencing rejection or who have received certain treatments. By understanding how these immune cells behave, researchers hope to find better ways to spot rejection early and improve treatments for kidney transplant patients. This is an early-stage study, focusing on how this new scanning method works in the human body.

At a glance

Status

Authorised

Phase

Human Pharmacology (Phase I)- Other

Sponsor

Radboud universitair medisch centrum Stichting

Enrolment target

Start

04 Jun 2026

Renal allograft rejection

What is this study about?

Imagine your body getting a new kidney – that's a kidney transplant. Sometimes, your body's defence system, called the immune system, sees the new kidney as something foreign and tries to attack it. This is called 'rejection', and it can be a serious problem for people with transplanted kidneys.

This study, called TIK (T cell imaging in kidney transplantation), is trying to find a new way to look at how these immune cells (especially a type called T cells) behave in people who have had a kidney transplant. They are using a special type of scan called a PET scan. Before the scan, you would be given a tiny, safe amount of a special substance that attaches to these immune cells. This allows the PET scan to 'light up' where these cells are in your body, showing researchers what's happening inside your kidneys, lymph nodes, and other organs.

The main aim is to see if this special scan can tell the difference between people whose bodies are rejecting their new kidney and those who are not. They also want to see if this scan shows changes after treatments that affect these immune cells. If successful, this research could lead to much earlier and more accurate ways to detect kidney rejection, helping doctors give the best possible care to transplant patients.

Key takeaways

This study uses a special scan to look at immune cells in kidney transplant patients.
It aims to understand kidney rejection better.
It could lead to earlier detection and improved treatments for rejection.
This is an early-stage study (Phase I).
Participation involves PET scans and blood tests.
You can withdraw at any time.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be an adult, 18 years old or older. The study welcomes both men and women.

More detailed rules will be discussed with you by the study team. These rules help make sure the study is safe for everyone involved and that the results are clear and reliable. For example, they might look at your overall health, how long ago you had your transplant, and any other medical conditions you have.

It's important to remember that not everyone who is interested will be able to take part. The study team will carefully check if this study is right for you during a screening process.

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?
Have you had a kidney transplant?
Are you considering a kidney transplant?
Are you able to attend study visits?
Are you willing to have special scans and blood tests?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you would undergo special PET scans. These scans use a small amount of a substance given into your bloodstream that helps highlight certain immune cells in your body. Scans would be done to look at your transplanted kidney, your original kidney (if you still have it), and other areas like lymph nodes (glands), spleen, liver, and bone marrow. You would also have blood tests, where a small amount of blood is taken to look at your immune cells more closely under a microscope. The study will involve several visits over a period of time, and the research team will explain the exact schedule to you.

Potential risks and benefits

Potential benefits of taking part include helping researchers learn more about kidney rejection, which could improve care for future transplant patients. While you might not directly benefit, your participation is valuable. Potential risks include those associated with PET scans, such as exposure to a very small amount of radiation, similar to a few X-rays, and risks associated with blood draws (like bruising or discomfort). All procedures have been carefully reviewed for safety. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

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

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Unverified
Netherlands

Common questions

What is a 'T cell'?

T cells are a type of immune cell, like tiny soldiers in your body, that help fight off infections. Sometimes after a transplant, they can mistakenly attack the new organ.

What is a PET scan?

A PET scan is a special type of medical imaging that uses a small, safe amount of a radioactive substance to show how your organs and tissues are working. It's painless and non-invasive.

What does 'rejection' mean for a kidney transplant?

Rejection means your body's immune system is trying to attack the new kidney because it sees it as foreign. It's a natural reaction, but doctors work hard to prevent and treat it.

Will I get my scan results?

The images are primarily for research, but the study team will discuss with you what information can be shared and how, normally at the end of the study.

How long will I be in the study?

The study team will tell you the exact duration of your involvement, including the number of visits and follow-up, during the screening process.