Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects millions of adults in the United States. Researchers estimate about 36 million adults have the condition, and as many as nine in 10 people may not realize they have it. If CKD is not treated, it can lead to dialysis or kidney transplantation.
CKD damages the kidneys. Doctors see loss of small blood vessels, inflammation, and fibrosis, which is scar tissue. A team led by Alejandro Chade at the University of Missouri used animal models to study how proteins and cells interact in diseased kidneys. They found several genes that could be targets for treatment.
Silencing one gene reduced fibrotic activity in the models. The researchers will map where these genes are active in the body and test what happens when their activity is changed. The work appears in Kidney360.
Difficult words
- chronic — A long-lasting health condition or disease.
- dialysis — A medical treatment that cleans the blood.
- transplantation — Moving an organ from one body to another.
- inflammation — Body reaction that causes redness or swelling.
- fibrosis — Growth of scar tissue in an organ.
- gene — A part of DNA that controls body traits.genes
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would you get a test for kidney disease if a doctor offered one? Why or why not?
- Why do you think many people do not realize they have CKD?
- Do you know anyone who had dialysis or a transplant? How did they feel about it?
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