Research on kidney function and disease. Covers kidney-failure prevention, gestational diabetes links, environmental risks, and gum-kidney connections.
Researchers have discovered that Schwann Cell Precursors are the origin of tuberous sclerosis complex tumours in the kidney. Lab-grown 'mini-kidneys' were used to create a genetic profile similar to TSC tumours, revealing the diversity in tumour size and cellular makeup within patients.
A study found that rates of serious complications associated with shoulder surgery are low, but one in 26 patients need further surgery within a year. The effectiveness of some shoulder procedures is doubtful at best, according to experts.
A case report highlights the dangers of excessive vitamin D intake, with symptoms including abdominal pain, leg cramps, and kidney abnormalities. Doctors warn that hypervitaminosis D is on the rise and can lead to serious health problems if not taken safely.
A cross-sectional study found significant differences between estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and directly measured GFR (mGFR), highlighting the importance of considering uncertainty in eGFR calculations. Researchers suggest renaming eGFR as a population average GFR to improve accuracy.
Researchers at Kyoto University discovered a unique subpopulation of resident fibroblasts that produce erythropoietin, a hormone critical for oxygen delivery in the kidneys. This 'crack team' of kidney cells has been found to play a crucial role in disease recovery and may hold new avenues for treatment.
Researchers found that factory-calibrated continuous glucose monitors are sufficiently accurate for estimating blood-sugar levels in patients with end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis. The devices showed 'clinical reliability', with almost 99% of readings accurate enough to be used without confirmatory fingerstick blood sugar readings.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that patients who received lactated Ringer solution instead of normal saline for IV fluids had a lower risk of kidney injury and death. The study, which included nearly 150,000 hospital patients, showed a 2.2% reduced risk of major adverse kidney events.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet has identified a key mechanism behind treatment resistance in a deadly form of kidney cancer. By increasing mitochondrial content in cancer cells, researchers found that these cells became susceptible to the cancer drug sorafenib. This breakthrough offers hope for more targeted cancer treatments.
A study found that over 60% of parents of children with kidney disease or hypertension are unsure or unwilling to vaccinate their child against COVID-19. Effective vaccines exist to protect children from COVID-19, and the findings highlight the need for clear communication to address parental concerns.
Researchers found that invasive therapy for non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction in patients with CKD is associated with lower mortality and reduced risk of cardiac events. The study challenges the dominant practice of offering medical management instead of invasive therapy for this population.
Chronic kidney disease and glaucoma have been found to share common risk factors such as diabetes and hypertension, leading to a higher risk of developing both conditions. The study also reveals that patients with glaucoma are more likely to develop chronic kidney disease over time.
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 new algorithm can analyze thousands of genomic variants to estimate a person's risk of developing chronic kidney disease, with the highest scores indicating tripled risk compared to the general population. Early detection may prevent many cases of kidney failure and reduce the need for transplant or dialysis.
A study found that US adults receiving hemodialysis with high air pollution exposure have more heart attacks and strokes compared to those with low exposure. The strongest associations were noted among patients who were Asian, older, or had chronic lung disease at dialysis initiation.
A third dose of COVID-19 vaccine may be essential for kidney transplant patients in Japan to prevent severe disease and infection. Researchers found that only a third of patients developed sufficient antibodies after two doses, highlighting the need for additional protection.
A recent study published in Kidney International Reports reveals that consuming at least one cup of coffee per day may reduce the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) by 15%. The largest reductions were observed in individuals who drank two to three cups of coffee daily, with a 22% lower risk.
Researchers at the University of Houston have identified blood biomarkers predicting heart disease in lupus patients and urine biomarkers for diagnosing kidney inflammation in children with lupus. These findings hold promise for early preventive measures and improved treatment outcomes.
A University of Queensland-led study found that millions of COVID-19 patients may have undiagnosed acute kidney injury (AKI), which can lead to serious illness or death. The true AKI diagnosis rates are likely double existing data, highlighting the need for improved detection and management strategies.
Patients with primary glomerular diseases have a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular events, including coronary artery disease and stroke. The study found that inclusion of kidney-specific risk factors improved the prediction of cardiovascular events.
Scientists have discovered that certain metals found in people's urine could be potentially useful clinical biomarkers for the early detection of acute kidney injury (AKI). The study, which was led by experts from the University of Nottingham, found that concentrations of these metals rose in urine within an hour after cardiac surgery ...
Researchers at Kyoto University identify a distinct subpopulation of fibroblasts responsible for producing the hormone erythropoietin (Epo), which stimulates red blood cell production. This discovery provides insight into renal anemia and may lead to novel treatment methods for patients with chronic kidney disease.
A recent study published in CJASN found that SGLT-2 inhibitors were not associated with an increased risk of fractures in adults with chronic kidney disease, regardless of their kidney function. The study included over 38,000 new users of the medications and compared them to those prescribed a different diabetes medication.
A study found that patients with IgD multiple myeloma have a worse prognosis than other types, with higher mortality rates and more kidney damage. The rare blood cancer produces excessive light chains that can damage the kidneys if left untreated.
A protocol-based potassium supplementation strategy resulted in a longer time to the first peritonitis episode and a lower hazard ratio of peritonitis compared to reactive supplementation. This approach also improved PD-related outcomes by significantly reducing the risk of peritonitis.
A large randomized controlled trial found that treatment with methylprednisolone reduces the risk of kidney function loss and failure in patients with IgA nephropathy. The study's results suggest a lower dose regimen may be effective while minimizing side effects.
A large study has found six predictors that can help determine the optimal lithium dose for patients with bipolar disorder. The predictors include age, sex, kidney function, and medication use. The researchers hope to develop a digital app to aid psychiatrists in finding the right dose.
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.
Researchers created human mini-kidneys that mimic diabetic kidneys, finding increased susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection and a critical role for the ACE2 receptor. The study provides new insights into the link between diabetes and COVID-19 disease.
Researchers at the University of Waterloo found that combining diuretics and renin-angiotensin system inhibitors with ibuprofen can lead to acute kidney injury in people with certain medical profiles. The combination may be a 'triple whammy' that exacerbates dehydration, which is a major factor in acute kidney injury.
Researchers have identified potential biomarkers in lupus nephritis through large-scale protein analysis, which may replace invasive tests. The study's findings could lead to more accurate diagnosis and treatment of the disease.
State bans on affirmative action policies are associated with lower enrollment of underrepresented minority students in public medical schools. The study found a 5.5 percentage point decrease in enrollment of underrepresented students relative to control schools.
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.
A new study by the Mayo Clinic confirms that living kidney donor surgery via laparoscopic surgery is low-risk for most patients, with only 2.5% experiencing major complications. The study tracked over 3,000 donors and found that most complications occurred after discharge.
Researchers at Duke University discovered that SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, can directly infect and damage specific types of kidney cells. The virus hijacks the cell's machinery to replicate, leading to structural damage and increased production of viral particles.
A new study found that Black kidney transplant recipients exhibit a faster clearance rate of tacrolimus, an immunosuppressive drug. The study suggests that considering both sex and race when dosing tacrolimus may reduce adverse effects and enhance transplant outcomes.
Researchers at The University of Toledo found that low-dose lithium acts as a powerful anti-aging agent in the kidneys by blocking GSK3-beta, an enzyme associated with cellular aging. Studies showed improved kidney function and reduced albuminuria in mice and psychiatric patients treated with lithium.
Patients with mild to moderate kidney disease and kidney transplant recipients had a higher risk of cancer. They also faced a higher risk of dying from cancer, particularly from cancers such as bladder, kidney, and multiple myeloma, compared to those with normal kidney function.
Researchers found that metal concentrations were particularly elevated in CWSs serving semi-urban, Hispanic communities, highlighting environmental justice concerns. Arsenic, barium, chromium, selenium, and uranium concentrations were also disproportionately elevated.
A recent analysis found that hospital admissions for children with lupus showed a decrease in severe kidney problems over time. However, racial disparities persist, with Black and Asian children at higher risk of developing new kidney problems.
Researchers have discovered a significant association between acute kidney injury and an increased risk of developing dementia in patients hospitalized with AKI. Early detection and monitoring may lead to improved outcomes for this high-risk population.
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.
This year's Experimental Biology 2022 meeting features groundbreaking studies on COVID-19 vaccine-associated symptoms in non-menstruating people, a plant compound showing promise for alleviating food allergies, and the potential of omega-3s to boost immunotherapy's cancer-fighting power. Researchers also explore the safety of using CBD...
A new instrument, KART 2.0, measures Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and transplant-related knowledge to identify patients who could benefit from additional education and counselling. The tool was validated in a diverse group of patients with moderate to severe CKD.
A post-hoc subgroup analysis of the AFIRE trial found that reduced kidney function significantly influences bleeding events during antithrombotic therapy. Patients with healthy kidney function have a decreased risk of bleeding over time, while those with reduced kidney function remain at high risk.
Researchers have successfully used a new sound wave technique called burst wave lithotripsy (BWL) to break up kidney stones in humans, achieving a median of 90% stone volume fragmentation within 10 minutes. The procedure shows potential for an office-based treatment approach with minimal tissue injury and no anesthesia required.
Researchers at University of Cologne discovered that specific diets can safeguard against acute kidney injury in mouse models. The six tested diets showed overlapping changes in cysteine catabolism as a potential mechanism for organ protection.
A new commentary reveals the underappreciated costs of switching to peritoneal dialysis, which may limit its use in the US. The study identifies policies that could be implemented to address cost-related barriers and increase uptake of peritoneal dialysis.
A new study suggests including the 'Deciding Not to Decide' treatment option can improve care for older adults with chronic kidney disease, giving them more time to make informed decisions about their treatment. Researchers argue that this approach strengthens patient-centered care and increases patient autonomy.
Dialysis facilities referred more incident patients, transplant centers evaluated more, but fewer were placed on the waitlist following KAS implementation. This led to a decline in overall waitlisting nationwide.
Researchers identified peripheral tissues as source of blood amyloid beta, which regulates blood glucose levels and suppresses insulin secretion. The study suggests a possible mechanism linking type 2 diabetes to Alzheimer's disease development.
Researchers found that impaired kidney function is preferentially associated with cardioembolic stroke in a large cohort of patients. Low filtration rates and high urine protein levels predicted increased risk of cardioembolic stroke, disability, and mortality.
A study at Duke-NUS Medical School found that inhibiting IL-11 can reduce kidney damage, inflammation, and scarring in Alport syndrome mice. Combining this therapy with ACEi treatment increased lifespan by over 400%.
Researchers from Osaka University discovered that MondoA protein delays cellular senescence by activating autophagy, promoting longevity. Activation of MondoA also maintains mitochondrial stability, preventing senescence in tissues like the kidney.
Researchers found that a community-based approach to reporting APOL1 genetic test results resulted in lower blood pressure readings among hypertensive patients. This trial suggests that involving communities in genetic testing could be beneficial for reducing the risks of chronic kidney disease.
A new dialysis system can produce sterile, medical grade water in the home, providing an affordable option for patients with kidney failure. The Ellen Medical Devices Point-of-Care system has been tested and found suitable for use in peritoneal dialysis fluid production.
Researchers discovered that a specific osmolyte causes kidney cells to undergo an EMT transformation, leading to renal failure. The team found a way to prevent this change by arresting focal adhesion rearrangement, suggesting a new approach to enhance therapeutic value of common osmolytes.
A new study found that palliative care for hospitalized patients with both COVID-19 and acute kidney injury (AKI) was often called later than expected, despite the high risk of death. Palliative care supports primary doctors in managing emotional and physical symptoms while assisting in advance care planning.
A Brazilian study of 2,777 patients hospitalized between January 5 and September 12, 2021 found that vaccination was the sole predictor of mortality in those over 60 with kidney failure. Vaccination also reduced hospitalization risk among non-vaccinated patients with comorbidities.
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.
Young adults are disproportionately excluded from kidney transplantation, with only 1.8% of Black and 4.4% of Hispanic patients receiving the treatment compared to 10.9% of White patients within this age group. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to address these disparities.