Scientists from the University of Bristol have found a new way to prevent kidney failure in thousands of people. The research was published in the journal Kidney International.
Nephrotic syndrome is a condition in which protein appears in the urine and albumin levels in the blood drop due to malfunctioning of the kidneys. In some cases, this can eventually lead to the development of kidney failure. This is an extremely rare condition, affecting around 10,000 people each year in the UK. However, most cases are due to non-genetic causes.
The scientists used blood plasma from patients with idiopathic (no apparent cause) nephrotic syndrome undergoing dialysis. They found that exposure to plasma on kidney cells led to disruption of their work. This was associated with activation of the PAR-1 receptor. They then confirmed this result with a PAR-1 receptor activator substance.
The study’s authors suggest that these receptor blockers may stop the progression of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. It is now treated with steroids, which are quite effective but have many side effects. Some patients may benefit from a kidney transplant, but the disease often recurs and damages the new kidney, sometimes almost immediately. A PAR-1 receptor blocker would not only eliminate the need for steroids, but would also make transplant a more cost-effective treatment option as newly transplanted kidneys will no longer be as vulnerable as before. Scientists hope to develop the drug in the coming years.