Buffer-dependent regulation of aquaporin-1 expression and function in human peritoneal mesothelial cells.

Background: Biocompatible peritoneal dialysis fluids (PDF) are buffered with lactate and/or bicarbonate. We hypothesized that the reduced toxicity of the biocompatible solutions might unmask specific effects of the buffer type on mesothelial cell functions.

Methods: Human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMC) were incubated with bicarbonate (B-)PDF or lactate-buffered (L-)PDF followed by messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein analysis.

Stimulation of the calcium-sensing receptor stabilizes the podocyte cytoskeleton, improves cell survival, and reduces toxin-induced glomerulosclerosis.

Calcimimetics increase the sensitivity of the parathyroid calcium-sensing receptor to extracellular calcium for efficient control of hyperparathyroidism. Recent studies suggest that there are beneficial effects of calcimimetics beyond the control of bone and mineral homeostasis. Here, we tested whether the calcium-sensing receptor is also expressed and functionally relevant in podocytes.