Thermo Fisher Scientific, Bio-Techne Develop Kidney Rejection Test

Thermo Fisher Scientific and Bio-Techne have developed a urine-based test that could improve kidney transplant success rates.

The ExoTRU urine-based test enables organ transplant teams to detect potential kidney rejection at a much earlier point, based on exosome mRNA markers.  

“While there have been many advances made in the management of rejection and overimmunosuppression, new treatments and diagnostics present an opportunity for more progress in this arena. Each day we’re discovering new potential with exosomes, a type of extracellular vesicle that contain constituents (protein, DNA, and RNA) of the cells that secrete them, which may be helpful as health indicators,” explained Chris Lawrence, senior director of Business Development and Medical Affairs, Thermo Fisher Scientific.  
 
The ExoTRU assay distinguishes T-cell mediated rejection (TCMR) from antibody mediated rejection (ABMR). The earlier detection provided by the ExoTRU test means transplant teams can intervene at a pivotal point and ultimately change the course of potential organ rejection. The test indicates rejection post-transplant and identifies the type of rejection, which enables clinicians to develop precise treatments for each patient. 
 
On average 10% to 20% of kidney patients face acute transplant rejection, according to the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. The improved process for monitoring rejection through the ExoTRU test improves the quality of life and transplant outcomes for kidney transplant patients, and has implications extending far beyond other organ transplants including heart, lung and liver.   
 
“As we understand the role of exosomes as early key indicators of successful organ transplantation, and design diagnostics to detect early signs of rejection, we look ahead to the strong implications for the quality of life for heart, lung and liver transplant patients, and the extended benefits to our society,” said Lawrence.  
 
Current diagnostics for detecting potential kidney transplant rejection are urine tests measuring other biomarkers (mostly creatin) in urine rather than exosome markers. These tests detect biomarkers either too late in the rejection process, or with insufficient sensitivity. If rejection is suspected, patients must undergo an invasive, uncomfortable and costly biopsy that most often indicates signs of rejection much too late, revealing less specific information.  

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. delivers innovative technologies through brands, including Thermo Scientific, Applied Biosystems, Invitrogen, Fisher Scientific, Unity Lab Services, Patheon and PPD.