Kidney Research News for Patients across the UK
Kidney research is always moving forward, so we keep track of the latest kidney news, chronic kidney disease (CKD) research, and treatment developments. Our News and Research page shares clear, patient-friendly summaries – from a patients’ perspective – of important kidney studies and health stories, helping people at every stage of the CKD journey understand what is changing, what it could mean for their care, and what they may wish to discuss with their renal consultant, kidney team or GP.
Health Research
CKD symptom burden: new study reveals important gender differences in advanced kidney disease
A European study of over 1,100 older adults shows women with advanced CKD report more symptoms, while men see faster symptom progression. We explore what CKD symptom burden research means for patient care.
CMV vaccine research: new hope for kidney transplant patients in 2026
New UK research, funded by Kidney Research UK and led by UCL, reveals how a promising CMV vaccine produces antibodies that could better protect kidney transplant patients from this common virus.
Art on Dialysis: how creativity is supporting wellbeing during treatment
A new NHS Highland initiative called Art on Dialysis brings an artist in residence to a renal unit, offering kidney patients creative activity during their long treatment sessions and addressing the emotional challenges of dialysis.
Kidney peer educators: Peterborough pilot to reach at-risk communities
Kidney Research UK is recruiting kidney peer educators in Peterborough to help Eastern European and South Asian communities spot the signs of kidney disease early, in a pilot that could expand UK-wide.
New kidney treatments: promising advances for CKD patients in 2026
A March 2026 Scientific American report highlights new kidney treatments emerging from research into diabetes, autoimmune conditions, and smarter diagnostics. We look at what these advances could mean for CKD patients.
Could a small skin patch from a donor help detect transplant rejection earlier?
For anyone who has received a transplant, or who is waiting for one, the fear of rejection is something that stays with you. After the initial relief of receiving a new organ, the reality of long-term monitoring begins: regular blood...
Would astronauts’ kidneys survive a roundtrip to Mars?
UCL space kidney research reveals that galactic radiation could cause permanent kidney damage on a Mars mission. We explore what this means for kidney patients on Earth.
NHS Launches Programme to Help More Donated Kidneys Reach Patients
The NHS is launching a machine organ preservation programme that could enable 345 more kidney transplants a year by extending the assessment window for donated organs. We explain what this means for kidney patients.
Kidney transplant MRI scans could help assess donor organs before surgery
Oxford researchers are testing kidney transplant MRI scanning to assess donor organs more accurately before surgery. We explain what the ADMIRE trial means for kidney patients.
Pig Kidney Transplant Research: What It Could Mean for Kidney Patients
A patient in the US received a pig kidney transplant that functioned for months as a bridge while he waited for a human donor. We explain what xenotransplantation research could mean for kidney patients.
New Antibody Therapy Offers Hope for Polycystic Kidney Disease
Scientists have developed a new PKD antibody therapy showing early promise in slowing and reversing kidney cyst growth. We explain what this could mean for people living with polycystic kidney disease.
Kidney Organoid Research: Insights and Future Potential
Kidney organoid research helps scientists study how kidney disease develops at a cellular level and test new treatments. We explain what these findings could mean for patients.
Latest MRIKPA News
Oldest Kidney Donor at 84: Record Breaking at Manchester Royal Infirmary
Graham Sisson, 84, became the UK's oldest kidney donor when he gave his kidney to his son-in-law at Manchester Royal Infirmary. We explore what this remarkable story means for kidney patients and living donation.
Come along to our First Casual Manchester Park Walk on Thurs April 23rd
MRIKPA's first Greater Manchester Casual Park Walks are here. Join kidney patients, family, friends and carers for an informal, pressure-free stroll at Wythenshawe Park on Thursday 23rd April and Thursday 14th May, 2 to 4pm. All welcome - no need...
New Blood Pressure Guidance for Kidney Patients
The UK Kidney Association has released new blood pressure guidance to help kidney patients manage their condition more effectively. We explain what the updated recommendations mean in practice.
How MRIKPA members are enjoying the Spring weather
Embracing Life with Renal Health Challenges: Support & Inspiration from MRIKPA As members of the Manchester Royal Infirmary Kidney Patients’ Association (MRIKPA), we understand the unique challenges of living with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Whether you’re a patient, carer, or...
The MRI – A Lifeline for CKD Patients
Renal Care at Manchester Royal Infirmary Living with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) presents daily challenges, but for patients at Manchester Royal Infirmary (MRI), expert care and a strong support network provide reassurance and hope. As a patient-run organisation, MRIKPA understands...
Calls for Clearer Fasting Guidance for Kidney Patients
At MRIKPA, we know that many of our members carefully manage their diets to support their kidney health. But what happens when fasting is part of your lifestyle—whether for religious, medical, or personal reasons? A new call from experts highlights...
World Kidney Day 2025 & Harmony for Hope: A Celebration of Awareness and Music
Raising Kidney Health Awareness on World Kidney Day Each year, World Kidney Day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of kidney health and the challenges faced by those living with kidney disease. Taking place on Thursday, 13 March...
Adidas Manchester Marathon 2025: A Celebration of Sport, Community, and Fundraising
The Adidas Manchester Marathon is one of the UK’s premier long-distance running events, drawing thousands of participants and spectators to the city each year. Known for its fast, flat course and incredible atmosphere, the marathon showcases Manchester’s vibrant spirit and...
BTS NHSBT Annual Congress 2025 – Brighton, 12-14 March
BTS NHSBT Annual Congress 2025 – Brighton, 12-14 March The BTS NHSBT Annual Congress 2025 is taking place from 12 to 14 March at The Brighton Centre, Brighton. This important event brings together clinicians, scientists, allied health professionals, and experts...
Accessing the Renal Dialysis Unit at Manchester Royal Infirmary: A Guide for Patients and Visitors
MRI Renal Department Accessibility Information from AccessAble At MRIKPA, we recognise the importance of reliable and accessible information for kidney patients requiring regular dialysis. AccessAble provides a comprehensive guide on the accessibility of the Renal Dialysis Unit at Manchester...
Find out more about Organ Donation
Organ Donation: Make Your Wishes Known Organ Donation Week is a crucial awareness campaign that shines a light on the importance of organ donation and encourages open conversations about life-saving decisions. At MRIKPA, we understand how vital organ transplants are...
Join us for the Westfield Health British Transplant Games 2025 in Oxford!
The Westfield Health British Transplant Games are back for 2025, and we’re calling on all kidney transplant recipients, donors, and supporters to get involved! Taking place in the historic city of Oxford from 31st July to 3rd August 2025, the...
MRIKPA Newsletters
Download past issues of our Printed Newsletter below.
| Newsletter Edition | Link to the file |
|---|---|
| Autumn 2023 | Download PDF |
| Spring 2023 | Download PDF |
| Summer 2021 | Download PDF |
| Winter 2020 | Download PDF |
| Summer 2019 | Download PDF |
| Winter 2018 | Download PDF |
| Summer 2018 | Download PDF |
Click HERE to read our latest Newsletter online.
