We use cookies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience. This includes personalizing content and advertising. To learn more, click here. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies. Cookie Policy.

Features Partner Sites Information LinkXpress hp
Sign In
Advertise with Us
GLOBE SCIENTIFIC, LLC

Download Mobile App




Novel Technique Detects Biomarkers for Kidney Diseases with Nephritic Syndrome

By LabMedica International staff writers
Posted on 27 May 2024

Nephrotic syndrome is associated with several kidney diseases such as minimal change disease (MCD), primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), and membranous nephropathy (MN), and is characterized by high levels of protein in the urine. More...

This condition primarily stems from damage to podocytes, the cells that filter blood in the kidneys, which results in protein leakage into the urine. Often, children diagnosed with MCD or FSGS are categorized under idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS), indicating an unknown cause. This is typically because children with elevated urinary protein levels seldom undergo kidney biopsies, which are the standard method for determining the underlying cause. Traditionally, the diagnosis of these conditions has been complicated due to their similar histological features and a general reluctance to perform invasive kidney biopsies, especially in children. Although anti-nephrin autoantibodies have been detected in some patients with MCD and FSGS, their exact role in the progression of these diseases remains unclear. A groundbreaking study recently presented at the 61st ERA Congress has made a significant breakthrough in diagnosing and monitoring kidney diseases linked to nephrotic syndrome.

Researchers at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (Hamburg, Germany) utilized a hybrid method to identify anti-nephrin autoantibodies as a reliable biomarker for tracking the progression of these diseases, paving the way for tailored treatment strategies. The study, which spanned across Europe and the USA, employed a novel combination of immunoprecipitation and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to accurately detect anti-nephrin autoantibodies. The results showed that these autoantibodies were present in 69% of adults with MCD and 90% of children with INS who had not received immunosuppressive treatments. The levels of these antibodies also correlated with the activity of the disease, indicating their potential as a biomarker for monitoring disease progression. These antibodies were seldom found in other diseases being studied.

In further experiments, researchers introduced laboratory-synthesized nephrin protein to mice, simulating conditions similar to MCD. This immunization led to phosphorylation of nephrin and significant changes in cellular structures, suggesting that antibodies targeting nephrin play a role in podocyte dysfunction and the onset of nephrotic syndrome. Remarkably, this model required only a single immunization to trigger rapid disease onset, even with low concentrations of antibodies, unlike other models that need multiple immunizations.

“The identification of anti-nephrin autoantibodies as a reliable biomarker, coupled with our hybrid immunoprecipitation technique, enhances our diagnostic capabilities and opens new avenues for closely monitoring disease progression in kidney disorders with nephrotic syndrome,” said Dr. Nicola M. Tomas, co-lead author of the study.

“By providing insights into underlying mechanisms, these findings lay the groundwork for personalized interventions and pave the way for a new era of precision medicine for these complex conditions," added Professor Tobias B. Huber, lead author of the study.

Related Links:
University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf


Gold Member
Troponin T QC
Troponin T Quality Control
3-Part Differential Hematology Analyzer
Swelab Alfa Plus Sampler
New
Rapid Test Reader
DIA5000
New
Pan-Cancer Panel
TruSight Oncology 500
Read the full article by registering today, it's FREE! It's Free!
Register now for FREE to LabMedica.com and get access to news and events that shape the world of Clinical Laboratory Medicine.
  • Free digital version edition of LabMedica International sent by email on regular basis
  • Free print version of LabMedica International magazine (available only outside USA and Canada).
  • Free and unlimited access to back issues of LabMedica International in digital format
  • Free LabMedica International Newsletter sent every week containing the latest news
  • Free breaking news sent via email
  • Free access to Events Calendar
  • Free access to LinkXpress new product services
  • REGISTRATION IS FREE AND EASY!
Click here to Register








Channels

Hematology

view channel
Image: CitoCBC is the world first cartridge-based CBC to be granted CLIA Waived status by FDA (Photo courtesy of CytoChip)

Disposable Cartridge-Based Test Delivers Rapid and Accurate CBC Results

Complete Blood Count (CBC) is one of the most commonly ordered lab tests, crucial for diagnosing diseases, monitoring therapies, and conducting routine health screenings. However, more than 90% of physician... Read more

Immunology

view channel
Image: A simple blood test could replace surgical biopsies for early detecion of heart transplant rejection (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

Blood Test Detects Organ Rejection in Heart Transplant Patients

Following a heart transplant, patients are required to undergo surgical biopsies so that physicians can assess the possibility of organ rejection. Rejection happens when the recipient’s immune system identifies... Read more

Pathology

view channel
These images illustrate how precision oncology Organ Chips recapitulate individual patients’ responses to chemotherapy (Photo courtesy of Wyss Institute at Harvard University)

Cancer Chip Accurately Predicts Patient-Specific Chemotherapy Response

Esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), one of the two primary types of esophageal cancer, ranks as the sixth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide and currently lacks effective targeted therapies.... Read more
Copyright © 2000-2025 Globetech Media. All rights reserved.