Abstract: Sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (S-AKI) is a common and highly lethal complication in critically ill patients, with complex pathological mechanisms and limited therapeutic options. With the continuous developments of biomarkers, molecular mechanisms, and early diagnostic techniques, early identification and intervention of S-AKI have gradually become research focal points. This article reviews the progress that was achieved in the basic concepts, epidemiology, biomarkers, pathophysiology, treatment and prevention of S-AKI. This article aims to provide novel insights into the early diagnosis and treatment of S-AKI and promote further development in clinical and basic research.