To ensure that the molecular renal probes trace the right biological processes and signals, the scientists initially noted the reactive oxygen species (ROS). These ROS’s are unstable molecules (chemically) acts as biomarkers for early-stage kidney failure or injury. When the ROS isn’t in balance in the body, it leads to the body proteins, DNA, and fatty tissues being damaged. This adversely can unlock pathways for the death of a cell in an organ, and renal fibrosis, which doctors know can make the injured kidney unable to heal.

The study team is aware that existing reports have cited that ROS-induced by-products aren’t regulated in the urine or plasma before acute kidney injury kicks in. This means that acute kidney failure can be detected earlier using direct ROS detection.

The scientists developed a probe which consists of three components; an aspect which reacts with already identified ROS, a luminescence signaling aspect which makes sure that upon this reaction, the probe lights up. The last part ensures that the examination rightly navigates through the kidneys instead of being stuck at the liver. These newly developed probes are very sensitive; they’re able to detect minute variations in biomarker concentrations ensuring earlier disease detection.

The study team injected these probes into mice, which have been given the cancer drug cisplatin at a high level destructive to their kidneys.