RecruitingPhase IInterventional

Hypothermic oxygenated pancreas perfusion - the HOPP study

This study, called HOPP, is testing a new method to improve how donor pancreases are kept healthy before being transplanted. Currently, donated pancreases are stored in an icebox. This study will involve gently pumping the pancreas with cold, oxygen-rich fluid for two hours before it's transplanted. This technique has shown good results for kidney and liver transplants, and now we want to see if it helps pancreases too. We hope it can reduce damage to the pancreas and make transplants more successful, especially for people with severe diabetes needing a new pancreas and kidney. The study will compare outcomes of 30 patients who receive the new treatment with 60 patients who had the standard procedure.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Phase I

Sponsor

University of Oxford

Enrolment target

Start

23 Mar 2026

Estimated completion

30 Sep 2026

Simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplants

What is this study about?

If you have severe diabetes that has also affected your kidneys, a combined pancreas and kidney transplant can be a life-changing treatment. It can bring your blood sugar levels back to normal, meaning you might not need insulin anymore, and it can also improve your overall health and life expectancy. Most of these transplants happen at the same time for people whose kidneys have been damaged by diabetes.

When an organ is donated, it's usually kept cool in a special fluid to slow down its activity and protect it. However, recent studies for kidney and liver transplants have found that gently pumping the organ with cold, oxygen-rich fluid can protect it even better. This method has helped more donated organs be used successfully for transplants. This study wants to see if this same technique can help protect donor pancreases.

The HOPP study will investigate this new method for pancreas transplants. The aim is to see if giving the pancreas this extra care before it's transplanted can reduce damage and lead to better results for patients. We're hoping this could make pancreas transplants even safer and more successful.

Key takeaways

Exploring a new way to preserve donor pancreases for transplant.
Testing oxygenated fluid pumping for two hours before transplant.
Aims to reduce damage to the pancreas and improve transplant success.
For adults needing both a pancreas and kidney transplant in Oxford.
Study compares 30 patients with the new method to 60 with standard care.
Hopes to increase the number of usable donated pancreases.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 or older who are on the waiting list for a combined pancreas and kidney transplant at Oxford. You must be able to understand the study information and agree to take part.

For the donated organs, we're looking at pancreases and kidneys from deceased donors that meet specific health criteria. These organs must have been stored in the usual cold fluid before they get the special oxygen treatment for the study.

You cannot take part if you are receiving only a pancreas transplant (without a kidney), or if you are already participating in another medical study that might affect the results of this one. The doctors will also check if you have any other health conditions that might make participating unsafe for you.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Are you on the waiting list for a combined pancreas and kidney transplant at Oxford?
Can you understand the study information and give your consent to participate?
Are you able to meet all study requirements (as decided by the research team)?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, the donor kidney and pancreas will arrive at the hospital as they normally would, in an icebox. While the kidney is being prepared for your transplant, the pancreas will have a special treatment: it will be gently pumped with cold, oxygen-rich fluid for about two hours. After this, your pancreas will be transplanted as usual. We will then carefully monitor your progress, looking at how well both your new pancreas and kidney are working. We'll also check for any complications, like inflammation of the pancreas, if you need any extra surgery, and how long you stay in hospital. You’ll be compared to patients who had a similar transplant recently without this new oxygenated fluid treatment. The study is planned to run from March 2026 to December 2026.

Potential risks and benefits

The main potential benefit of this research is that the new method could help protect the donor pancreas more effectively, potentially leading to fewer complications and better long-term results for transplant patients. This could also mean more donated pancreases can be safely and successfully used. As this is a new technique for pancreases, there might be unforeseen risks, though it has been used safely for other organs. You will be closely monitored. Remember, participating in any study is entirely voluntary, and you have the right to withdraw at any time without affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Churchill Hospital
Approximate
Oxford, England

Common questions

What is the main goal of the HOPP study?

The goal is to see if a new technique of pumping donor pancreases with oxygenated fluid before transplant can make them healthier and lead to better patient outcomes.

Will I receive a special treatment if I join?

Yes, if you join, your donor pancreas will receive two hours of oxygenated fluid pumping before your transplant surgery.

Who is funding this study?

The study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) in the UK.

What kind of patients are they looking for?

They are looking for adults aged 18 or over who are having a combined pancreas and kidney transplant in Oxford for severe diabetes.

What if I change my mind about participating?

You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, and this will not affect your medical care.

How to find out more

James Hunter

HOPP@nhsbt.nhs.uk +44 (0)1865381037 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.