MediBeacon Inc. has received FDA approval for its Transdermal GFR (TGFR) system, a novel approach to assessing kidney function in adult patients. The TGFR system offers a non-invasive method for measuring Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) in individuals with both normal and impaired renal function.
The TGFR system comprises three components: a sensor, a monitor, and Lumitrace (relmapirazin) injection. Lumitrace, a non-radioactive fluorescent tracer agent, is administered intravenously. The sensor, placed on the skin, measures the tracer's fluorescence intensity transdermally, with the monitor displaying the average tGFR reading. This method eliminates the need for blood draws or urine analysis, offering a more convenient alternative to traditional GFR assessment methods.
Clinical Validation
The TGFR system's approval was supported by clinical trials that demonstrated its efficacy and safety. According to MediBeacon, the TGFR met its primary efficacy endpoint, achieving a P30 value of 94%. This indicates that 94% of GFR estimations fell within +/- 30% of measured GFR (mGFR) values. No serious or severe adverse events were observed during the clinical studies.
Advantages over Existing Methods
Traditional GFR assessment often requires multiple blood draws or urine samples, followed by sophisticated laboratory analysis. The TGFR system, in contrast, provides a point-of-care solution, delivering rapid results without the need for complex laboratory procedures. Dr. Mitchell Rosner, chair of the Department of Medicine at University of Virginia, noted that the TGFR system is an important milestone for the nephrology community.
Addressing Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) affects over 800 million people worldwide and is a leading cause of mortality. Steve Hanley, CEO of MediBeacon, emphasized the significance of the TGFR approval, stating that CKD causes more deaths each year than breast or prostate cancer. The TGFR system offers clinicians a new tool for assessing kidney function and managing patients with or at risk of CKD.
Intended Use and Limitations
The MediBeacon TGFR is intended for use in adult patients with stable renal function. It is not approved for use in patients with GFR <15 ml/min/1.73 m2, GFR >120 ml/min/1.73m2, patients on dialysis, or anuric patients. The system is also not validated for patients with dynamic and rapidly changing renal function and is not intended to diagnose acute kidney injury (AKI).
