Risk Prediction for Acute Kidney Injury — Super Important, Now suPAR Easy?

This editorial evaluates the clinical implications of using soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) levels to predict acute kidney injury (AKI). Drawing on findings from Hayek et al., it discusses elevated suPAR as both a risk biomarker and a possible contributor to AKI pathogenesis through podocyte injury. suPAR levels were associated with early AKI development in diverse cohorts—including patients undergoing coronary angiography, cardiac surgery, and ICU admission. Though the absolute risk varied by population, even mild AKI correlated with worsened outcomes. The author notes that suPAR’s elevation can reflect broader inflammatory or comorbid conditions, requiring context-specific interpretation. The piece concludes by highlighting the potential for suPAR-targeted interventions in AKI prevention.

This editorial evaluates the clinical implications of using soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) levels to predict acute kidney injury (AKI). Drawing on findings from Hayek et al., it discusses elevated suPAR as both a risk biomarker and a possible contributor to AKI pathogenesis through podocyte injury. suPAR levels were associated with early AKI development in diverse cohorts—including patients undergoing coronary angiography, cardiac surgery, and ICU admission. Though the absolute risk varied by population, even mild AKI correlated with worsened outcomes. The author notes that suPAR’s elevation can reflect broader inflammatory or comorbid conditions, requiring context-specific interpretation. The piece concludes by highlighting the potential for suPAR-targeted interventions in AKI prevention.