The Science Behind AlloSure Kidney
Learn how AlloSure Kidney measures an early marker in your blood to help detect signs of transplant injury or rejection—often before symptoms appear.
Medically reviewed by Peale Chuang, MD, FASN
Last updated: September 8, 2026
Medically reviewed by Peale Chuang, MD, FASN
Last updated: September 8, 2026
AlloSure Kidney is a blood test that measures a specific marker found in the bloodstream—donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA)—that may help detect early signs of transplant injury or rejection, often before symptoms appear.1,2
How AlloSure works
AlloSure works by looking at tiny fragments of DNA in your bloodstream. After a transplant, the donated kidney releases its own DNA into your blood. These fragments are called donor-derived cell-free DNA, or dd-cfDNA.
When your transplanted kidney is injured, it releases more of its DNA into the bloodstream. By tracking dd-cfDNA levels over time, AlloSure may detect early signs of injury or rejection—often before they show up in routine lab results or cause physical symptoms.1,2
What AlloSure can tell your doctor1,2
AlloSure may detect early signs of rejection or injury
AlloSure may detect early signs of transplant injury or rejection—often before they show up in routine lab results or cause physical symptoms.
AlloSure may help your doctor act sooner
When changes in AlloSure results appear, your doctor can investigate and take action. They may order follow-up tests or adjust your medications, among other courses of action.
AlloSure works alongside your routine care
AlloSure is used alongside routine lab tests, biopsies, and other monitoring tools to give your care team a fuller picture of your transplant health over time.
Supporting transplant science
For more than 25 years, CareDx has supported transplant recipients and care teams at every stage of the journey—with transplant testing, patient support, specialized pharmacy services, and educational resources designed for the transplant experience.
Researchers continue to study new approaches to transplant medicine, including personalized transplant care and xenotransplantation (an experimental type of transplant where a genetically modified animal organ is transplanted into a human).
Key Takeaway
AlloSure Kidney measures donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA) in the bloodstream, which may provide an earlier warning of transplant injury or rejection—sometimes up to 3 months earlier than other routine blood tests.1,2 Through ongoing research and a deep commitment to transplant care, CareDx continues working to support transplant recipients at every stage of their journey.
Related Content
What is cell-free DNA (cfDNA)
Understand how dd-cfDNA testing works and how it can support transplant monitoring.
Know more, sooner: AlloSure Kidney
Learn how AlloSure Kidney works, what results may mean, and how CareDx supports kidney transplant recipients.
About CareDx
Learn how CareDx supports transplant recipients and care teams throughout the transplant journey.
Bu, L., et al. Kidney Int. 2022 Apr;101(4):793-80.
Aubert, O., et al. Nat Med. 2024 30: 2320-2327.
CareDx is committed to providing scientifically supported educational content for transplant recipients and caregivers. All content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice or replace guidance from your healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of your transplant team with any questions you may have regarding your specific medical condition.