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AdDress Boutique Hosts Silent Auction of Natalie Cole Items to Support UKRO


From April 2 to April 7, 2012, fabulous celebrity consignment shop, the AdDress Boutique, is hosting a silent auction of gorgeous hats from Natalie Cole’s collection. Drop by the store at 1116 Wilshire Boulevard in Santa Monica, and place your bid for one or all of these hats, just perfect for the spring season. All … Continue reading AdDress Boutique Hosts Silent Auction of Natalie Cole Items to Support UKRO

TNF Proteins May Warn of Diabetic Kidney Disease Risk


Researchers at Harvard Medical School and Joslin Diabetes Center have discovered that high levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptors found in the blood of patients with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes may predict incidence of chronic kidney disease and kidney failure years later. TNF proteins can trigger inflammation, which has been linked to … Continue reading TNF Proteins May Warn of Diabetic Kidney Disease Risk

New Kidney Disease Susceptibility Genes Discovered in Asian Genomic Study


Scientists from Singapore and China studying people of Han Chinese descent have identified genes and regions in the human genome that increase susceptibility to IgA nephropathy.  The researchers believe the genes could also play a role in the development of clinical symptoms and their severity. Lead scientist, Dr. Yu Xueqing said, “These findings offer us opportunities … Continue reading New Kidney Disease Susceptibility Genes Discovered in Asian Genomic Study

Hydrogen Sulfide Reduces Glucose-Induced Injury in Kidney Cells


Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio may have discovered an important medical use for hydrogen sulfide, the toxic, colorless gas that smells of rotten eggs. Their experiment focused on kidney cells exposed to high glucose levels. In diabetes patients, prolonged, uncontrolled blood glucose levels can lead to scarring of the … Continue reading Hydrogen Sulfide Reduces Glucose-Induced Injury in Kidney Cells

Top News on Kidney Transplant Chains and Shortening the Wait for Organs


This has been a big week for stories about innovative approaches to organ donation. Last Sunday, the New York Times featured an amazing story about 60 people linked by a transplant chain that changed the lives of 30 patients with kidney disease. It all began with one man inspired by an acquaintance who had recently … Continue reading Top News on Kidney Transplant Chains and Shortening the Wait for Organs

Blood Pressure within Glomerulus Influences Podocyte Survival and ESRD


Scientists studying the mechanisms behind cell adhesion have made some significant discoveries about the factors that influence podocyte survival. The kidney filter barrier is made up of podocyte cells with long foot-like projections that wrap around the capillaries of the glomerulus. The slits between these projections allow smaller molecules like salts, water and sugar to … Continue reading Blood Pressure within Glomerulus Influences Podocyte Survival and ESRD