Articles tagged with Nephropathies
A recent review article highlights the crucial role of macrophages in the progression from acute kidney injury (AKI) to chronic kidney disease (CKD). The study suggests that targeting specific signaling pathways and altering macrophage activation can prevent renal fibrosis and CKD. Therapeutic strategies such as clodronate liposomes an...
A retrospective cohort study found that poor continuity of care is associated with increased health care use and sub-optimal prescribing of guideline-recommended medications in patients with CKD. Strengthening patient-provider relationships and guiding physicians on recommended prescribing can help mitigate these issues.
A study found that general practitioners use ultrasound for exploratory purposes, outside of formal training areas, raising concerns about appropriate use and scanning competency. Meanwhile, lung ultrasounds may enable primary care physicians to prescribe antibiotics directly, reducing radiation exposure and saving time.
A qualitative study of Black veterans with chronic kidney disease reveals feelings of anger and resentment towards racist encounters in healthcare. Participants expressed a strong sense of distrust in the healthcare system, highlighting the need for increased awareness and action to address racism.
Scientists have created cilia-free human pluripotent stem cells that exhibit symptoms of ciliopathy, such as polycystic kidney disease. These cells can be used to study the cause of these diseases and guide therapy development.
A team of researchers has identified two transcription factors, AP-2α and AP-2β, that regulate distinct segments of the distal nephron in the mammalian kidney. The study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying urinary concentration and its implications for treating kidney diseases.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital identified genes that play a crucial role in maintaining healthy kidney repair, including FANCD2 and Rad51. Activating a DNA repair mechanism may help preserve kidney function in people with chronic kidney disease.
A new study used a virtual population to simulate a clinical trial examining kidney damage in Black Americans. The model predicted kidney damage and showed that adding drug therapy and reducing salt intake could stop the damage, improving heart sizes as well.
A systematic review of 41 studies found that patients with advanced kidney disease who forgo dialysis have improved survival rates and quality of life. The study also showed a significant reduction in healthcare resource utilization and end-of-life care expenses.
A new study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that obesity may increase the risk of end-stage kidney disease in women with type 2 diabetes. Managing blood pressure and sugar levels is not enough to slow progression, emphasizing the need for weight management.
Researchers have developed a gel that improves the formation of arteriovenous fistulas, a vital connection site for kidney failure patients undergoing dialysis. The gel helps reduce intimal hyperplasia and vein narrowing, leading to better blood flow and increased success rates.
Researchers created novel frog models to replicate polycystic kidney disease, allowing for real-time observation of disease processes. AI analysis enabled rapid assessment of disease in the tiny animals.
Researchers developed a new compound based on Nobel Prize-winning discoveries that raised hemoglobin levels in patients with kidney disease undergoing dialysis and those not on dialysis. The oral medication was found to be as safe and efficacious as conventional treatment for anemia, offering a transformative approach to patient care.
Researchers discovered an important mediator of thrombosis in CKD patients, the IDO enzymatic pathway, which can be targeted for therapeutic purposes. Current antithrombotic agents fail to target this pathway, predisposing patients to increased risk of bleeding.
Researchers found significant variations in guideline-recommended chronic kidney disease care delivery based on race and ethnicity. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to address these disparities and improve health outcomes for diverse patient populations.
A new global study found that setting targets for treating diabetes patients with cholesterol or blood pressure medication can significantly improve cardiovascular outcomes. Achieving these targets could save up to 6% of healthy lifetime lost to diabetes over 10 years, mainly due to reduced cardiovascular conditions.
A study published in Journal of Internal Medicine found that 64.3% of adults with moderate chronic kidney disease also had metabolic syndrome, increasing their risk of premature death and cardiovascular problems. Patients with metabolic syndrome had a 26% higher risk of dying and a 48% higher risk of experiencing cardiovascular events.
Researchers compared various race-free equations and found that removing race adjustments increases eGFR values for Black patients, leading to more chronic kidney disease stage reclassifications. Blending or direct removal of race coefficients resulted in decreased eGFR estimates.
A new study found that lead contamination in drinking water can have detrimental effects on individuals with advanced kidney disease, affecting hemoglobin levels and requiring higher doses of medications. The study also revealed concerning inequities, with higher water lead levels observed for Black patients compared to white patients.
Chronic kidney disease patients are at high risk of fragility fractures, yet most receive no osteoporosis therapy. A new review provides concise recommendations for clinicians to manage osteoporosis in these patients, outlining diagnosis, risk assessment, and intervention thresholds.
Iron deficiency has been linked to higher risks of death and cardiovascular events in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), regardless of whether they have anemia. Clinical trials are needed to test the effects of iron treatment on these outcomes in CKD patients.
Researchers have identified the alternative complement pathway as a key driver of IgA nephropathy, a chronic kidney disease. Iptacopan, an oral inhibitor of Factor B, has been shown to significantly reduce proteinuria and stabilize renal function in patients with IgAN, offering a new therapeutic approach.
Researchers found dapagliflozin reduced the risk of progressive kidney disease by half in FSGS patients over a 2.4-year period, with good tolerability and safety. The medication stabilizes renal function and improves clinical outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes and concomitant kidney damage.
SGLT2 inhibitors like gliflozins reduce the risk of progressing to end-stage kidney disease in both diabetic and non-diabetic patients. The kidneys produce less erythropoietin as a result, which reduces anemia, resulting in reduced renal endpoint, cardiovascular events, and mortality
A novel AI tool predicts the grade of interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy in kidney biopsies, a known structural correlate of progressive and chronic kidney disease. This technology has the potential to increase efficiency in clinical practices.
Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute have discovered how lipid droplets in kidney cells help prevent damage from excess dietary fats. The study found that lipid droplets act as a safe haven for storing excess fats, and boosting the ATGL enzyme can repair damage caused by a high-fat diet.
Researchers from Kumamoto University have discovered that cysteinylated albumin can be used as an early diagnostic marker for diabetic kidney disease. The study found that serum oxidized albumin reflects renal pathology earlier than urinary albumin and predicts disease progression.
Researchers found that people with reduced kidney function have an increased risk of developing dementia, with those with moderate chronic kidney disease having a 71% higher risk. The study highlights the importance of identifying and treating cases of kidney disease to reduce the risk of dementia.
A large observational study by Karolinska Institutet researchers found a clear link between poor kidney function and increased risk of dementia. The study of over 325,000 individuals suggested that an eGFR score of 30-59ml/min was associated with a 71% increased risk of dementia.
A new algorithm developed by researchers at Columbia University can automatically scan electronic medical records for signs of chronic kidney disease, alerting physicians to patients in the earliest stages. The algorithm performs nearly as well as experienced nephrologists, correctly diagnosing kidney disease in 95% of identified cases.
Researchers have discovered a compound found in some vegetables that may help reverse kidney problems associated with diabetes. Phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) has been shown to target multiple pathways involved in diabetic nephropathy, including inflammation and oxidative status.
A pilot trial found that the 'Sit Less, Interact, Move More' intervention decreased sedentary time, increased stepping time, and boosted step counts in patients with moderate-to-advanced CKD. However, these benefits were not sustained over 20 weeks. The study suggests that additional interventions may be needed to sustain long-term eff...
A new special issue of Calcified Tissue International brings together state-of-the-art reviews on key issues in CKD-MBD. The reviews cover topics such as pathogenesis, epidemiology, challenges in management, including after kidney transplantation, and the role of bone biopsy in management.
The ASN and NKF publish an interim report assessing alternative methods to diagnosing kidney diseases, highlighting the need for a standardized approach. The task force recommends replacing existing equations with a new method that is accurate, representative, and unbiased.
A University of Tsukuba study identifies a cost-effective way to promote dietitian-led patient education and lifestyle advice for chronic kidney disease management. By adjusting reimbursements and incentivizing general physicians, the intervention can slow CKD progression and extend patients' lives.
A rat study reveals that consuming heat-treated foods increases the risk of chronic kidney disease due to intestinal barrier permeability and microvascular diseases. Heat-treated compounds lead to hyperactive innate immune system components, causing kidney damage.
A new smartphone app has been shown to improve medication adherence and safety in patients with chronic kidney disease. The eKidneyCare app sent monthly reminders for medication reviews and reduced medication discrepancies by 44% compared to a commercially available stand-alone app.
Researchers tested CER-001 on a human patient with familial LCAT deficiency, showing improved kidney function and stable vision for up to 11 months. The treatment was well-tolerated, but further studies are warranted to prevent kidney progression.
The new guidelines recommend bringing blood pressure levels down to 120 mmHg systolic in chronic kidney disease patients, benefiting nearly 24.5 million individuals. This update aims to improve blood pressure control among the one in seven people in the US with chronic kidney disease.
Researchers from Indiana University have identified key genetic changes in the interstitial kidney tissue of people with diabetes, which could lead to a revolutionary new genetic approach to treating kidney disease. The study found that important genes change when a scar forms on the interstitium, a previously undercharacterized part o...
A study analyzing 169 patients with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) in Ireland identified genetic changes in up to 83% of cases. The findings will help doctors identify patients who may require transplantation or dialysis, improving treatment options for this inherited condition.
A large population-based family study found that individuals with an affected first-degree relative have a threefold higher risk of chronic kidney disease. Genetic factors play an important role in modulating susceptibility to kidney disease.
Researchers found that stopping RAS inhibitors reduced the risk of requiring dialysis but increased the risk of cardiovascular events and death. The study suggests that doctors must carefully weigh the benefits and harms of these medications in patients with advanced CKD.
Research finds that goal striving stress is linked to progressive kidney disease in African Americans, with higher levels of stress increasing the risk. The study, published in the Journal of Investigative Medicine, suggests that traditional risk factors only partially explain this disparity.
Exposure to fine particulate air pollution is associated with a greater likelihood of chronic kidney disease. The risk is stronger in urban areas, males, younger adults, and those without comorbid diseases. Air pollution levels can be estimated using satellite-based information.
Half of patients with advanced CKD delay AVF creation, often starting with temporary vascular access despite education. Researchers found that beliefs about the value of vascular access predict intentions to prepare for hemodialysis and access outcomes.
A recent analysis of Geisinger Health System's electronic health records reveals chronic kidney disease as the leading risk factor for COVID-19-related hospitalization. The study found that patients with end-stage renal disease were 11 times more likely to be admitted to the hospital compared to those without kidney disease.
Starting RASi lowers KRT risk while maintaining similar cardiovascular risks as CCB in advanced CKD patients. This nationwide study suggests RASi may slow kidney disease progression and offer cardiovascular protection.
Finerenone reduced the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and other negative cardiovascular events in patients with chronic kidney disease and Type 2 diabetes. The medication also reduced the rate of death, hospitalization for heart failure, and worsening kidney disease among these patients.
A novel diabetes medication, sotagliflozin, significantly reduces hospitalization for heart failure, heart attack, and stroke in patients with Type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. The study found a 26% decrease in cardiovascular deaths and hospitalizations.
Patients with chronic kidney disease can proactively manage their health by receiving tailored guidance on diet and lifestyle. Effective communication with doctors and strong family support are also crucial in empowering patients to take a more active role in their care. This study highlights the importance of clearer information, bett...
A Baylor College of Medicine team found nickel toxicity as the underlying cause of the devastating epidemic of Mesoamerican Nephropathy (MeN) in Nicaraguan coastal communities. The study revealed low-dose exposure to nickel causes systemic inflammation, anemia, and kidney injury, progressing to chronic kidney disease in 90% of patients.
The new European consensus statement provides practical recommendations for diagnosing and treating osteoporosis in advanced stage CKD. The guidelines aim to reduce the care gap and promote proactive fragility fracture prevention in high-risk patients.
A new equation for estimating glomerular filtration rate (GFR) shows improved accuracy and precision compared to commonly used equations. The European Kidney Function Consortium's (EKFC) equation addresses limitations of existing methods and is suitable for a wide age range.
Researchers from Kanazawa University found that skipping breakfast and late dinner are associated with an increased risk of proteinuria, a key prognostic factor of CKD. Unhealthy dietary habits, including quick eating, were linked to the development of proteinuria despite no changes in body weight.
Combination therapy of verinurad and febuxostat significantly lowers urinary albumin excretion and uric acid levels in people with chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes. The treatment is generally well-tolerated, with minimal adverse events reported.
ERA-EDTA has launched a series of e-seminars to apply recent trial findings to patient care. The e-seminars focus on topics like SGLT2 inhibitors and COVID-19, aiming to provide nephrology experts with insights into the benefits and risks of new treatments.
A research team discovered molecular processes in kidney cells that attract and feed COVID-19, making them a target for potential therapies. The study identified networks of molecules that result in higher levels of ACE2, a protein on the surface of kidney cells that aids in virus entry and activation.
A study found that online peer mentoring for individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) improves patient activation, which is positively correlated with various aspects of quality of life. Improved patient activation correlates with improvements in physical symptoms and burdens of kidney disease but not mental aspects.
A new study found that similar molecular processes are activated in diabetic kidney disease and COVID-19 patients, making them more susceptible to infection. The research suggests that diabetes primes kidney cells, which can lead to a severe immune response and kidney damage when combined with COVID-19.