Researchers from Keio University in Japan have discovered how statins and the protein KL4, found in endothelial cells lining the blood vessels of the kidney, can help prevent acute kidney injury. Experiments in mice showed that endothelial KL4 (Kruppel-like factor 4) protects kidneys by suppressing inflammation and represents a promising therapeutic target for AKI. Mice … Continue reading Protective Protein Works with Statins to Prevent AKI
New Kidney Disease Biomarkers Discovered
In two separate studies, researchers have discovered new blood biomarkers that may lead to better, earlier diagnosis of kidney disease and swifter interventions to protect kidney function and avoid complications. Scientists from Germany reviewed concentrations of 500 metabolites in the blood of several thousand people, finally identifying six metabolites related to kidney function. They found … Continue reading New Kidney Disease Biomarkers Discovered
Mini Kidneys Grown In Lab Mimic Disease
Using stem cell and gene-editing techniques, researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital have succeeded in growing mini kidneys that mimic disease. These tiny, impressive organoids, just 1 mm in diameter, are capable of modeling healthy as well as diseased kidneys and contain kidney tubules resembling those in people. They can also survive after transplantation in … Continue reading Mini Kidneys Grown In Lab Mimic Disease
Sox9 Gene Activates Healing Response in Kidney Cells
A research team led by scientists in Dr. Andy McMahon’s lab at the Broad California Institute of Regenerative Medicine at USC, has discovered the crucial role that the Sox9 gene plays in kidney repair after acute kidney injury (AKI). The work of lead author, Sanjeev Kumar, M.D., Ph.D., was funded by a UKRO John McKay … Continue reading Sox9 Gene Activates Healing Response in Kidney Cells
Kidney Stones in Kids Linked to Hardened Arteries
Clinician-scientists at Nationwide Children’s Hospital have uncovered a link between kidney stones in children and atherosclerosis, or hardened arteries, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease which is usually seen in adults. Ultrasound imaging revealed thicker arteries in children with recent stones compared to children without stones. Urine samples from the children with a history of … Continue reading Kidney Stones in Kids Linked to Hardened Arteries
Poor Kidney Function Linked to Brain Disorders
A 2,645 person, population-based study conducted by researchers from Erasmus University Medical Center in the Netherlands highlights a link between poor kidney function and brain disorders. The scientists uncovered an intriguing association between poor kidney function and decreased blood supply to the brain. They also found that those participants with diminished kidney function and decreased … Continue reading Poor Kidney Function Linked to Brain Disorders