Key Takeaways & Executive Findings
- •• A novel non-invasive renal function monitoring system based on fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) was developed, enabling real-time assessment of renal function. • The renal function index (RFI) derived from fluorescence lifetime parameters strongly correlates with glomerular filtration rate (GFR) (R² = 0.89). • The system successfully distinguishes between healthy and diseased kidneys in a rat model of chronic kidney disease. • FLIM-based monitoring allows longitudinal tracking of disease progression and therapeutic response, offering potential for clinical application.
Abstract
Renal function monitoring is critical for the diagnosis and management of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Traditional methods rely on invasive procedures and lack real-time capabilities. This study presents a novel renal function monitoring system based on fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) technology, enabling non-invasive, real-time assessment of renal function. The system utilizes a custom-built FLIM setup with a pulsed laser and time-correlated single photon counting (TCSPC) detection to measure the fluorescence lifetime of renal biomarkers. We developed a renal function index (RFI) derived from fluorescence lifetime parameters, which correlates with glomerular filtration rate (GFR). In vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted using a rat model of CKD. Results demonstrate that the RFI significantly distinguishes between healthy and diseased kidneys, with a strong correlation to GFR (R² = 0.89). The system also enables longitudinal monitoring of disease progression and response to therapy. Our findings suggest that FLIM-based renal function monitoring offers a promising non-invasive tool for early detection and management of CKD, with potential for clinical translation.
1. Introduction
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health burden, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. Early detection and continuous monitoring of renal function are essential for effective management and prevention of disease progression. Traditional methods for assessing renal function, such as serum creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), are indirect and often fail to detect early-stage renal impairment. Moreover, invasive procedures like renal biopsy carry risks and are not suitable for repeated monitoring. Therefore, there is an urgent need for non-invasive, real-time, and sensitive techniques for renal function assessment.
Fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) is a powerful optical technique that measures the decay kinetics of fluorophores, providing quantitative information about the biochemical microenvironment. FLIM has been widely used in biomedical research to study cellular metabolism, protein interactions, and disease states. In this study, we propose a novel renal function monitoring system based on FLIM, which utilizes the fluorescence lifetime of renal biomarkers to non-invasively assess renal function. We developed a renal function index (RFI) and validated its correlation with GFR in a rat model of CKD. Our results demonstrate the potential of FLIM as a clinical tool for real-time renal function monitoring.
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ZHANG Wei, LI Ming, WANG Fang, CHEN Jing, LIU Yang (2026). Development and Application of a Renal Function Monitoring System Based on Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Technology. Chinese Journal of New Drugs. https://doi.org/pub_80__articleID_524
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) and how is it used in renal function monitoring?
FLIM is an optical imaging technique that measures the decay time of fluorescence emitted by fluorophores. In renal function monitoring, FLIM is used to measure the fluorescence lifetime of renal biomarkers, which changes with the biochemical environment. This allows non-invasive, real-time assessment of renal function, providing a quantitative index (RFI) that correlates with GFR.
How does the renal function index (RFI) correlate with glomerular filtration rate (GFR)?
In our study, the RFI derived from fluorescence lifetime parameters showed a strong correlation with GFR, with a coefficient of determination (R²) of 0.89. This indicates that RFI can serve as a reliable surrogate for GFR, enabling accurate assessment of renal function.
What are the advantages of FLIM-based renal function monitoring over traditional methods?
FLIM-based monitoring is non-invasive, real-time, and provides quantitative biochemical information. Unlike traditional methods such as serum creatinine or eGFR, which are indirect and may not detect early renal impairment, FLIM can detect subtle changes in renal tissue microenvironment, allowing earlier diagnosis and continuous monitoring without invasive procedures.
Can this FLIM system be used for longitudinal monitoring of chronic kidney disease progression?
Yes, our system was validated in a rat model of CKD and successfully tracked disease progression over time. The RFI changed consistently with disease severity, demonstrating its utility for longitudinal monitoring and assessment of therapeutic responses.
What are the potential clinical applications of this FLIM-based renal function monitoring system?
The system has potential for clinical translation in nephrology, enabling non-invasive, real-time monitoring of renal function in patients with CKD, acute kidney injury, and post-transplant monitoring. It could also be used in drug development to assess nephrotoxicity and in personalized medicine for optimizing treatment strategies.
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