Chinese researchers developing 'digital kidney'

Researchers from Peking University have launched the Kidney Imageomics Project to develop a "digital kidney" — a comprehensive digital atlas of the organ — using multi-modal imaging technology and artificial intelligence algorithms.

This digital kidney will enhance the visualization of kidney disease mechanisms, paving the way for more precise diagnoses, the development of new medicines and targeted treatments, researchers said.

The absence of overt clinical manifestations and the paucity of clinically validated diagnostic biomarkers frequently result in delayed detection of chronic kidney disease, with most cases remaining undiagnosed until significant renal impairment occurs. Clinical presentation typically coincides with progression to advanced disease, highlighting critical gaps in early-stage diagnostic capabilities.