Articles tagged with Kidney
Researchers found that Viagra can stimulate water permeability in kidney cells by increasing cyclic-GMP levels, potentially alleviating symptoms of nephrogenic diabetes insipidus. Long-term studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness and safety of this approach.
A recent Mayo Clinic study found a significant association between benign prostate obstruction and chronic kidney disease in older men. BPH can cause bladder outlet obstruction, leading to increased risk of death, hospitalization, and cardiovascular events.
Researchers used genetic engineering techniques to develop mice with overexpressed PKC-beta 2, demonstrating its role in the progression of diabetic kidney disease. The study found that albumin levels were tenfold higher and oxidative stress three times higher in these mice compared to normal mice.
Researchers have discovered that specific proteins in the fruit fly eye play a crucial role in organ development, including kidney formation. These proteins, Roughest and Hibris, are also found in human kidneys and are essential for proper filtration and filtering of unwanted molecules.
Researchers found that patient and organ survival rates in transplants involving organs from 'extreme' donors were similar to success rates with conventional donors. The studies suggest that pancreas donor criteria can be liberalized without adverse outcomes, potentially increasing the number of available organs for transplant.
A recent study at Mayo Clinic found that transplanting kidneys with small stones does not significantly affect the kidney's function. The study followed 44 donor kidneys, of which 86% had stones smaller than 2mm, and reported a 97% graft survival rate after 26 months, comparable to national averages for living kidney donation.
CellCept shows benefits for liver transplant patients, similar to those seen in kidney transplant recipients, with reduced risk of acute rejection and improved kidney function. The treatment also promotes safe steroid-free regimens and reduces liver fibrosis.
A new study assesses the feasibility and effectiveness of personalized immunosuppression using CellCept, a leading immunosuppressant in kidney transplantation. The study found that tailored dosing strategies can minimize toxicity while maximizing efficacy, offering improved patient care.
A nationwide collaboration of transplant specialists is reviewing kidney allocation guidelines, soliciting public input, and exploring changes to improve patient access and outcomes. The review process aims to balance justice, utility, and efficiency in the allocation system.
A new kidney function test, cystatin-C, is more effective than the standard test creatinine in predicting death and cardiovascular outcomes in elderly participants. The study found that 60% of participants with high cystatin-C levels had abnormal kidney function, putting them at medium or high risk for cardiovascular complications.
A new kidney test using protein cystatin is more accurate than the standard test for serum creatinine in predicting risk of death from all causes and cardiovascular disease, especially among elderly people. The test measures kidney function independently of muscle mass, age, gender, and race.
A recent study of over 8,500 patients discovered that cardiovascular risk factors, particularly albuminuria, can affect renal function even in those without end-stage renal disease. The International Society of Nephrology advocates proactive albuminuria screening to detect renal impairment and cardiovascular risk.
Researchers identify TRPC6 gene as novel mechanism for FSGS, a leading cause of kidney damage. The discovery raises hope for new treatments targeting ion channels, which are amenable to drug therapy.
Researchers discovered a genetic link between a mutation and vitamin B6 responsiveness, enabling a genetic test for guiding treatment. The disease causes kidney stones or failure if left untreated, but early diagnosis with this test can maximize successful treatment outcomes.
Researchers have identified a biological pathway for a potent molecule, IL-10, that can delay rejection of transplanted organs by preventing blood-vessel deterioration. The study used rat models and found that a single muscular injection of IL-10 could provide long-term therapeutic effects.
The new guidelines provide a framework for identifying patients at risk of kidney disease, evaluating their kidney function, and implementing management strategies. Nearly one-third of HIV-infected patients have abnormal protein in the urine, a warning sign of potential kidney trouble.
A new algorithm could significantly improve transplant matches for patients with end-stage kidney disease, with a national program resulting in 47.7% more transplants and better graft survival rates compared to regional programs. The study also found that highly sensitized patients would benefit six-fold from the optimized algorithm.
A national matching program for kidney donors and recipients can significantly increase the number of transplants, improve match quality and survival rates, while reducing travel costs.
Researchers at Yale University identified a novel human kidney protein called renalase that regulates both heart contraction and blood pressure. The protein is a strong candidate for easily administered treatment of advanced kidney and cardiovascular disease.
Researchers identify renalase as a novel protein regulating cardiac function and blood pressure. WNK1/4 interaction is also crucial for controlling human blood pressure and familial hyperkalemic hypertension (FHHt) risk.
Researchers identified a new protein called renalase, which regulates heart rate and blood pressure. Reduced levels of renalase have been linked to increased cardiovascular risk in patients with end-stage kidney disease.
A University of Maryland study found that more than 86% of dialysis patients with severe heart failure experienced improved cardiac function after a kidney transplant. The study, which followed 103 patients between 1998 and 2002, suggests that a timely transplant can significantly improve heart health for these patients.
Researchers investigated the effects of temperature-dependent cadmium exposure on oysters, exploring a potential deadly threat from global warming. They also discovered a therapy for cystic fibrosis by rescuing mutant CFTR protein through chaperone competition.
Researchers found no causative MEF2A mutations in patients with premature coronary heart disease, contradicting previous findings. The study suggests that another gene may be responsible for the heart disease, casting doubt on the role of MEF2A in CAD.
Research reveals kidneys and other systemic tissues have distinct roles in controlling blood pressure, challenging the dominant view that kidneys play a central role. The findings suggest that maximal efficacy of hypertension drugs requires complete blockade of receptors in both kidney and outside of kidney.
Researchers found a link between high phosphorous levels and vascular calcification, leading to increased risk of cardiac problems. Treatment with an experimental medication alleviated skeletal weakening and decreased signs of vascular calcification in mice.
Researchers discovered a new protein, KCP, that enhances signals from bone morphogenetic proteins, vital for kidney development and function. In models of mice with renal injuries, KCP activity slowed the progression of kidney disease, suggesting it could be a potential therapeutic agent.
A recent study published at the Central Surgical Association meeting found that success rates for kidney transplants are comparable regardless of donor and recipient age. The research suggests that using newer methods to match kidneys with recipients can increase organ availability for older patients.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine found that mutations in NPHP5 produce defects in cilia, leading to kidney failure and retinitis pigmentosa. The study reveals a common molecular mechanism causing both diseases.
Researchers identified specific genetic variants that increase the risk of kidney damage after heart surgery. Patients with these polymorphisms have a higher likelihood of renal dysfunction due to amplified inflammatory responses and vascular constriction.
A novel self-replicating microorganism, nanobacteria, has been linked to kidney stone formation in astronauts and may pose an infectious risk. The discovery provides additional clues to understanding the link between nanobacteria and pathologic calcification-related diseases.
Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding diabetic nephropathy by identifying CD36 as the probable trigger of kidney disease in diabetics. High glucose levels cause a change on the surface of cells, triggering the production of CD36, which leads to kidney cell death.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have discovered a protein called CD36 that may play a key role in the development of diabetic kidney disease. The study found that CD36 is present in specific cells and can trigger self-directed cell death or apoptosis, leading to progressive kidney failure.
A retrospective study of over 500 patients found that obese kidney donors experienced similar short-term outcomes to non-obese donors, despite prior cardiovascular disease risks. The study highlights the need for longer follow-up periods to assess potential long-term differences in obese donors.
Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center discovered a protein called Ngal that can protect mice from renal failure after injection, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic tool. The study also found Ngal to be an effective marker for early diagnosis of kidney failure.
Researchers at MCG Medical Center are studying a bioartificial kidney that can mimic the functions of natural kidneys, reducing mortality rates in ICU patients. The device, developed by Dr. H. David Humes, uses billions of donor kidney cells to filter waste and regulate various bodily processes.
A large-scale study found that excess body size significantly increases the risk of developing kidney stones, with men weighing over 220 pounds facing a 44% higher risk. Weight gain since age 21 also contributes to this increased risk, particularly in older and younger women.
A recent study by Group Health Research Institute has identified key risk factors for kidney infections in women under 50. The research found that frequent sexual intercourse, recent urinary tract infections, new sex partners, family history of UTIs, and spermicide use are associated with a higher risk of kidney infection.
Researchers found that urinary calcium levels play a significant role in the formation of both calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate stones. The studies suggest that patients with elevated intestinal calcium absorption and urinary calcium levels may need to limit their calcium intake to prevent kidney stone formation.
Chronic kidney disease affects over 7.4 million Americans with less than half the kidney function of a healthy adult, while an additional 11.3 million have at least half normal function but persistent protein in their urine. Raising awareness and controlling diabetes and hypertension are critical to reducing progression and complications.
A study found that only 9% of adults with moderately decreased kidney function reported being told they had weakened or failing kidneys, highlighting a need for increased awareness and diagnosis. The researchers suggest that control of diabetes and hypertension are critical in reducing the rate of progression and complications of chron...
Researchers present a molecular portrait of aging in the human kidney using DNA microarray technology, identifying 985 age-related genes. The study suggests a common aging mechanism operates across different kidney structures and tissues.
Researchers at RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology challenged the view that RET-independent GFRá1 signaling plays a significant physiological role in either development or regeneration. Studies on mice lacking RET-independent GFRá1 revealed no developmental defects, suggesting that this receptor complex is not essential.
A phase I/II study demonstrates the bioartificial kidney's safety and effectiveness in treating acute renal failure, with six patients surviving over 30 days after treatment. The device uses human adult progenitor/stem cells to filter blood and regulate immune system molecules.
A new global approach aims to combat the growing threat of kidney disease by promoting early detection and proper care. This strategy has been shown to be effective in treating kidney disease, particularly when combined with evidence-based guidelines and actual clinical practice.
African-American communities benefit from education programs that lower blood pressure readings. Researchers also found that changing sleeping positions can alter blood pressure, with stomach-lying positions leading to a significant drop in systolic blood pressure. Furthermore, impaired kidney function significantly increases the risk ...
Two studies strengthen the connection between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and cardiovascular disease, showing that reduced kidney function increases the risk of death, heart disease, and hospitalization. Early detection and treatment are crucial to slow CKD progression and prevent these complications.
The majority of kidney transplant candidates waiting for kidneys have blood type O and are forced to wait even longer for a deceased donor kidney when list-paired exchanges are permitted. Researchers propose limiting these exchanges to pairs with compatible blood types to make them a moral option.
The Indiana University research team aims to reduce tissue damage from shock wave lithotripsy, a common treatment for kidney stones. They're developing protocols and mathematical models to make the procedure safer and more effective.
A new study suggests that iron therapy given to patients with kidney disease may have negative side effects, including exacerbating progressive renal damage. The study found that the level of toxicity depends on the type of iron formula used, highlighting a need for safer alternatives in treatment.
Scientists have grown functional kidneys in rats using embryonic tissue transplants, demonstrating their ability to filter blood and excrete waste. The research marks a critical step towards developing animal-to-human transplants to address chronic organ donation shortages.
Researchers investigate the role of mutated a-actinin-4 in FSGS, a leading cause of progressive kidney failure. The study reveals two possible mechanisms: aggregation and rapid degradation, which can injure kidney cells, highlighting potential therapeutic targets.
Studies of over 61,000 transplant patients demonstrate CellCept's unique survival benefits for solid organ transplant recipients. Additionally, CellCept reduces acute rejection rates and improves graft function, while also providing a lower risk of infectious death.
A new study found that a single daily dose of Valcyte is equally effective as three times daily Cytovene in preventing CMV in kidney transplant patients. This simplified regimen may improve care and quality of life for transplant recipients by reducing medication complexity.
A new matching system allows use of kidneys from older, high-risk donors increasing the number of patients who can benefit from transplantation. Success rates are similar between younger and older recipients, paving the way for more elderly adults to receive kidney transplants.
A Phase II study found LEA29Y effective in preventing acute rejection, but showed significant improvements in kidney function, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels compared to cyclosporine therapy.
The phase II clinical trial found that LEA29Y was as effective as cyclosporine in preventing acute kidney rejection, but had better kidney function and lower cholesterol levels. Patients treated with LEA29Y also showed improved cardiovascular risk profiles.
The study found that 4-MDCT results correlated accurately with surgical findings in 88 of the cases (93%), and specifically with renal vein anatomy in 91 of the 94 cases (96%). This technique offers several advantages over conventional imaging methods, including speed, non-invasiveness, comfort for patients, and greater volume coverage.
Researchers found that patients with kidney transplants from donors aged 55-79 had comparable allograft survival rates as those from younger donors. The study also revealed that older recipient patients may benefit from receiving kidneys from older deceased or living donors, particularly those facing prolonged waiting times on dialysis.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found a direct link between excess body weight and the formation of uric acid kidney stones. The study, which tracked nearly 5,000 patients, suggests that weight loss may be an effective therapy for preventing stone formation.