Renin-angiotensin blockade ameliorates the progression of glomerular injury in podocyte-specific Ctcf knockout mice.

Aim: Several studies have shown that the progression of proteinuria and renal tissue injury is associated with activation of the intrarenal renin-angiotensin system (RAS). CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF) is a DNA-binding factor that plays an essential role in the regulation of gene expression. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the phenotypic effects of CTCF deficiency in podocytes.

Urinary angiotensin converting enzyme 2 and disease activity in pediatric IgA nephropathy.

Background : Our previous studies demonstrated that the intrarenal renin-angiotensin system (RAS) status was activated in pediatric patients with chronic glomerulonephritis. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression in the kidney is associated with the development of pediatric IgA nephropathy. Methods : We analyzed urinary ACE2 levels and ACE2 expression in the kidney tissues of pediatric patients with IgA nephropathy treated with RAS blockade.

(Pro)renin receptor promotes crescent formation via the ERK1/2 and Wnt/β-catenin pathways in glomerulonephritis.

(Pro)renin receptor [(P)RR] has multiple functions, but its regulation and role in the pathogenesis in glomerulonephritis (GN) are poorly defined. The aims of the present study were to determine the effects of direct renin inhibition (DRI) and demonstrate the role of (P)RR on the progression of crescentic GN. The anti-glomerular basement membrane nephritis rat model developed progressive proteinuria (83.

Enhancement of electroencephalogram activity in the theta-band range during unmatched olfactory-taste stimulation.

The aim of this study was to investigate how odor stimulation affects taste perception. Electroencephalogram (EEG) signals were measured from the frontal region of the head in normal, healthy subjects, and frequency analyses were performed. Each odor stimulation was delivered while the subject was tasting chocolate, using chocolate paste as the odorant for 'matched odor stimulation,' and garlic paste for 'unmatched odor stimulation.