Proteomics International Laboratories testing using its “PromarkerD” device that employs a simple finger-prick blood test has shown a high accuracy in being able to predict future kidney disease in type 1 diabetes patients.

The company has told this week’s Australasian Diabetes Conference in Perth that testing has confirmed its excellent predictive qualities in detecting the possibility of future renal decline, marking the first time it has shown potential for forecasting chronic kidney disease (CKD) in type 1 patients. The tests indicate that PromarkerD is at least as good at predicting renal decline in type 1 patients as it is for those living with the type 2 version of the widespread disease.

Using Proteomics’ patented simple pin-prick prognostic blood test to detect a unique “fingerprint” of the early onset of the disease, the PromarkerD can predict future kidney function decline in patients with type 2 diabetes, but who have no current existing diabetic kidney disease (DKD).

‘We are excited about the potential impact this could have on managing kidney health in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients.’

Proteomics International Laboratories managing director Dr Richard Lipscombe

Previously, clinical studies published by the company showed that PromarkerD was able to correctly predict up to 86 per cent of otherwise healthy diabetics, who went on to develop DKD up to four years before clinical symptoms appeared.

Proteomics International Laboratories managing director Dr Richard Lipscombe said: “This significant advancement highlights the versatility and robustness of the PromarkerD test. We are excited about the potential impact this could have on managing kidney health in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients.”

Professor Tim Davis, the lead author of the study and a consultant physician at Fremantle Hospital, emphasised the potential benefits of early detection for type 1 diabetes patients. Prof. Davis says that by identifying at-risk individuals years before traditional methods, urological specialists can intervene sooner, potentially preventing significant renal complications and improving overall patient outcomes.

The study, conducted on 92 community-based confirmed type 1 diabetes patients in the catchment area of Fremantle Hospital was overseen by the phase-two Fremantle Diabetes Study – an extension of the original study first conceived by Prof. Davis in 1991.

The results are particularly relevant given the unique clinical needs of type 1 diabetes patients, who account for about 10 per cent of the 537 million people worldwide living with the disease. Early detection of CKD in the group could lead to timely interventions, potentially preventing more severe renal complications.