Tungsten toxicity on kidney tubular epithelial cells induces renal inflammation and M1-macrophage polarization.

Tungsten is widely used in medical, industrial, and military applications. The environmental exposure to tungsten has increased over the past several years, and few studies have addressed its potential toxicity. In this study, we evaluated the effects of chronic oral tungsten exposure (100 ppm) on renal inflammation in male mice.

SMOC2 promotes an epithelial-mesenchymal transition and a pro-metastatic phenotype in epithelial cells of renal cell carcinoma origin.

Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) is the most common form of all renal cancer cases, and well-known for its highly aggressive metastatic behavior. SMOC2 is a recently described non-structural component of the extracellular matrix (ECM) that is highly expressed during tissue remodeling processes with emerging roles in cancers, yet its role in RCC remains elusive. Using gene expression profiles from patient samples, we identified SMOC2 as being significantly expressed in RCC tissue compared to normal renal tissue, which correlated with shorter RCC patient survival.

Subchronic oral exposure of tungsten induces myofibroblast transformation and various markers of kidney fibrosis.

Tungsten is a naturally occurring transition element used in a broad range of applications. As a result of its extensive use, we are increasingly exposed to tungsten from our environment, including potable water, since tungsten can become bioaccessible in ground sources. The kidneys are particularly susceptible to tungsten exposure as this is the main site for tungsten excretion.

Qualitative and Quantitative Dosage of the Anti M-Type Phospholipase A2 Receptor Autoantibody: One-Year Experience in Quebec's Reference Center.

Background: Quantification of the M-type phospholipase A2 receptor antibodies (anti-PLA2R) is now an essential tool for diagnosis and management of primary membranous nephropathy (MN). Since October 2018, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont (HMR) has been designated as Quebec's reference center for serum anti-PLA2R antibody testing by the (INESSS), the regulatory body on drugs and tests usage in Quebec.

Objectives: To describe the 2-step method of serum qualitative and quantitative anti-PLA2R antibody testing during its first year of use in Quebec and analyze its diagnostic value in the province's population.

Vitamin C-Induced Oxalate Nephropathy in a Septic Patient.

Unlabelled: Vitamin C is a novel treatment currently under investigation in the management of sepsis. Adverse renal effects of vitamin C through hyperoxaluria have been described in the past.

Data Sources: We report the case of a 63-year-old man admitted in a community-based hospital with a diagnosis of sepsis of pulmonary origin.