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FORNY20-FORNY2020

The Next Generation Kidney Function test

Alternative title: Neste generasjons nyrefunksjonstest

Awarded: NOK 5.0 mill.

Researchers at University of Bergen and Haukeland University Hospital have developed a cutting-edge method to measure kidney function quickly and accurately. This innovation uses Positron Emission Tomography (PET) to visualize and quantify the Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) of a single kidney, without the need for time-consuming blood or urine samples. This technology allows for early detection of kidney disease, improved and simplified evaluation of patients with single kidney disease and kidney donors. GFR is a critical measure of kidney function, and even a small reduction of GFR is linked to increased mortality. However, current methods of measuring GFR have serious limitations, such as being lengthy and inconvenient for patients. Moreover, these methods only assess the combined function of both kidneys, which can obscure serious issues with one kidney. The PET GFR method addresses these issues by 18F-labelling of a small protein being normally present in all tissue fluids. After intravenous injection, the 18F-labelled protein visualizes the filtration rate in all the approximately one million functional units in each kidney. The project aims to prepare the method for formal pre-clinical studies and production, with the goal of achieving a local production license and demonstrating its superior functionality in a human exploratory study. Ultimately, the team hopes to enter negotiations with potential licensees to bring this innovative concept to the market.

Funding scheme:

FORNY20-FORNY2020