This biosensor can help in early detection of kidney diseases-Know all about this innovation

financialexpress.com:

Kidney disease is a global health concern, but conventional tests that check creatinine levels often overlook early signs of damage. To solve this, researchers of Chung-Ang University developed an innovative biosensor that detects symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), a byproduct of protein breakdown. The sensor uses special peptides to measure SDMA in urine with high accuracy and does not need additional diagnostic equipment. This simple, cost-effective tool enables early detection of kidney issues, supporting timely interventions and improved patient outcomes.

“Traditionally, kidney health has been monitored by measuring blood creatinine levels, which indicate muscle breakdown. High creatinine levels can suggest that the kidneys are not filtering waste efficiently. However, creatinine levels can be affected by a person’s muscle mass and only rise significantly after more than 75% of kidney function is lost. As an alternative, SDMA, a byproduct of protein breakdown, has emerged as a more reliable indicator of kidney function. SDMA accumulates in the bloodstream because it cannot be metabolized and is primarily excreted by the kidneys. Measuring SDMA in urine provides a more accurate indicator of kidney health. Unlike creatinine, SDMA levels increase even with mild kidney impairment (25–40% loss) and are not significantly influenced by muscle mass,” the researchers said.

In a recent study, researchers led by Professor Jong Pil Park from Chung-Ang University, Republic of Korea, introduced a biosensor to detect SDMA levels in urine. This non-invasive method offers a reliable alternative to blood tests, allowing for earlier detection and treatment of kidney disease. This study was made available online on October 22, 2024, and