kidney disease Archive — Page 2 of 6

Three-dimensional imaging of kidney tubules (yellow and green noodle-like structures) under low potassium conditions, which puts the kidney into a state of metabolic overdrive and causes cardiovascular problems.
August 5, 2024

Low potassium ‘turns on’ kidney proximal tubule: study

A kidney protein that responds to low levels of blood potassium — which can cause high blood pressure and cardiovascular problems — may be a target for new therapeutics.

By Leigh MacMillan
February 7, 2024

VUMC study finds molecular switch key to repair of kidney damage

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have identified Rac1, a molecular switch that regulates the actin cytoskeleton of epithelial cells in the collecting ducts, as a driver of post-obstructive kidney repair.

By Bill Snyder
November 21, 2023

VUMC scientists discover key step to kidney fibrosis

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center for the first time have shown that activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is essential for the development of kidney fibrosis, tissue scarring following injury that can lead to kidney failure.

By Bill Snyder
October 5, 2023

Kidney disease gene also has a protective mutation

African Americans have long been known to be at increased risk of kidney disease due to a dangerous genetic mutation that creates a hole in the kidney cells, but Vanderbilt researchers have now discovered a protective genetic mutation that covers the hole to eliminate the risk.

By Craig Boerner
May 8, 2023

Improved imaging for kidney disease

Vanderbilt researchers identified optimal MRI parameters for estimating the severity of polycystic kidney disease, a common inherited disorder that can lead to end-stage renal failure.

By Leigh MacMillan
January 19, 2023

Low potassium injures kidney

Vanderbilt researchers have discovered that low dietary potassium causes direct kidney injury, suggesting potential new targets for treating chronic kidney disease.

By Leigh MacMillan