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As a young nephrologist interested in clinical research, the World Congress of Nephrology 2023 in Bangkok really appeals. It promises to be a professionally rewarding experience with some very interesting sessions in store. I’m looking forward to both the scientific program and connecting with other researchers – all in an exciting, exotic location!

Biomarkers are predicted to be the cornerstone of precision medicine in the future. They will increasingly be used alongside physical examinations. A recent survey revealed that between 1986 and 2009, the National Institutes of Health awarded 29 000 grants for any research on biomarkers, and this number has been steadily increasing since 2009.  

With this in mind, my WCN’23 list includes all the sessions on novel biomarkers and omics. This non-invasive diagnostic modality will make our lives easier: One dip in urine, and you know what the kidney disease is – eureka!  

So, 

• “Transcriptomic Analysis in Acute Kidney Injury” by Dr. Benjamin Humphrys at 8.47 a.m. on
  April 1 

tops my list, followed by,  

• “Novel Biomarkers in CKD” by Professor Hiddo Lambers Heerspink  

and,  

• “How to Use Large Omics Data to Understand CKD” by Professor Markus Rinschen,

both in the ‘CKD and Novel Biomarkers’ session from 11.45 a.m.-12.45 p.m. on April 1. 

Nutrition is one of the most important yet neglected issues in patients with chronic kidney disease from the developing world. I’m curious to know how nutritional status influences the quality of life in patients with CKD and any novel solutions that could improve outcomes in these patients.  

Hence, I’m adding,   

• “Nutrition and Chronic Kidney Disease“ session by Dr. Michelle Wong from Canada on April 1 at 9:20 a.m.

Now, if I want to go back home after the congress and conduct a clinical trial effectively (which I do!), I can’t afford to miss:  

• The pre-congress “Clinical Trials Course” on March 30 – WCN’23 is reeling me in early!  

The clinical trial course is divided into three sessions: First is “Trial Rationale and Design,” which is on the basics of trial design, statistics, and consumer engagement in modern research. The second session covers the essentials of establishing and running trials, global representation in large trials, and new ways of conducting trials. The third session is all about innovation! It covers trial design, kidney disease outcomes, and Bayesian statistics. I’m curious about alternative research methods and surrogate outcomes other than “death” and “dialysis.” 

Okay, my bags are packed, flight tickets are booked, and hotel accommodation is confirmed! Last but not least, my “must attend” sessions list is ready to hand! See you in Bangkok!  

– Mythri Shankar