Basement membrane zone collagens XV and XVIII/proteoglycans mediate leukocyte influx in renal ischemia/reperfusion.

Collagen type XV and XVIII are proteoglycans found in the basement membrane zones of endothelial and epithelial cells, and known for their cryptic anti-angiogenic domains named restin and endostatin, respectively. Mutations or deletions of these collagens are associated with eye, muscle and microvessel phenotypes. We now describe a novel role for these collagens, namely a supportive role in leukocyte recruitment.

Heparin/heparan sulphate interactions with complement--a possible target for reduction of renal function loss?

Current management of end-stage renal failure is based on renal replacement therapy by dialysis or transplantation. Increased occurrence of renal failure in both native and transplanted kidneys indicates a need for novel therapies to stop or limit the progression of the disease. Acute kidney injury and proteinuria are major risk factors in the development of renal failure.

Factor h and properdin recognize different epitopes on renal tubular epithelial heparan sulfate.

During proteinuria, renal tubular epithelial cells become exposed to ultrafiltrate-derived serum proteins, including complement factors. Recently, we showed that properdin binds to tubular heparan sulfates (HS). We now document that factor H also binds to tubular HS, although to a different epitope than properdin.

Identification of tubular heparan sulfate as a docking platform for the alternative complement component properdin in proteinuric renal disease.

Properdin binds to proximal tubular epithelial cells (PTEC) and activates the complement system via the alternative pathway in vitro. Cellular ligands for properdin in the kidney have not yet been identified. Because properdin interacts with solid-phase heparin, we investigated whether heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG) could be the physiological ligands of properdin.

Knowledge and attitude towards HIV/AIDS among Iranian students.

Background: Young people are of particular importance in state policies against Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). We intended to assess the knowledge and attitude of high school students regarding AIDS in Iran.

Methods: Through a cluster-sampling, 4641 students from 52 high schools in Tehran were assessed by anonymous questionnaires in February 2002.