Chapter 6 - Biomarkers in Kidney Transplantation

Abstract

This chapter highlights a number of excellent studies that have attempted to advance the use of biomarkers in kidney transplantation. In general, most of the studies employed biomarkers that satisfied the characteristics discussed in the introduction. Since the field is relatively new, there are a number of limitations in these analyses. In general, the studies reported tended to be small, and included selected patient populations with significant heterogeneity. Another problem is subjectivity in the clinical diagnoses studied. Despite the limitations and the need for refinement, it is clear that studies of biomarkers hold promise. Whether biomarkers ever evolve to the point that they can replace traditional diagnostic methods remains to be seen. The ultimate role of biomarkers may primarily be as an adjunct in guiding which diagnostic procedure is best. Also, the field of transplantation has an excellent track record of conducting large, well-powered clinical trials with fairly homogenous patient populations. It may be advantageous for future clinical studies to include specimen collection for the express purpose of further defining the role of biomarkers in transplantation.