NGAL protein test strip

The research team of Khon Kaen University led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jurirat Daduang has developed the “urine NGAL (Neutrophil Gelatinase-associated Lipocalin) protein test strip” to help screen for abnormalities of the renal tubules from the beginning. The test takes no more than 15 minutes to know the results with the naked eye. It can measure the amount of NGAL protein in urine at the nanogram level and has an accuracy of approximately 90%. It is considered a small test strip that is easy to use. The general public can access the self-screening for kidney disease using a urine sample of approximately 20 microliters. If the test result shows 2 lines, it is an indication that the patient should undergo a kidney diagnosis and medical treatment. Recently, the innovation “NGAL protein test strip” received a “Good” award in the 2023 Higher Education Innovation Contest organized by the National Research Office (NRCT), Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), and received a trophy and cash prize in August 2023. Currently, the innovation “NGAL protein test strip” is in the process of additional clinical sample testing. In the future, if the production of NGAL protein test strips can be commercialized, the general public will be able to access kidney disease screening more easily at a reasonable price, which will result in lower government expenses for importing test kits and reducing the burden of treating patients with chronic kidney disease. Kidney disease can be prevented by controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels to be in the normal range, reducing the consumption of spicy and salty foods, drinking enough water, and exercising regularly. Avoid taking herbal medicines and some types of herbal medicines for a long period of time. Use medicines according to the advice of a doctor or pharmacist.