Complement in ANCA-associated glomerulonephritis.

Background: Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) are found in pauci-immune necrotizing crescentic glomerulonephritis. In the past, the role of complement in ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) was assumed to be minimal. More recently, however, it was found that blocking the complement cascade in a mouse model of AAV reduces glomerular damage.

DNA extraction from long-term stored urine.

Background: Traditionally, for DNA analyses, DNA is recovered from buffy coats. Since DNA in urine has been reported to deteriorate quickly, this option is often not considered. To complete our DNA database in patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis, we aimed to extract DNA from stored urine.

Dendritic cells in renal biopsies of patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis.

Background: Dendritic cells (DCs) maintain immune tolerance and are able to initiate immune responses. Their involvement in ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) is unknown. In this study, the participation of DC subsets is investigated in renal biopsies of AAV patients.

Signs and symptoms of thin basement membrane nephropathy: a prospective regional study on primary glomerular disease-The Limburg Renal Registry.

Background: To chart the epidemiology of primary glomerular disease by means of a prospective regional study in the southern part of The Netherlands.

Methods: Experienced renal technicians collected renal biopsies, blood, and 24-hour urine samples at the bed site in each of the participating hospitals. The material was processed and analyzed at the University Hospital Maastricht.