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Objective— An excessive release and impaired degradation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) leads to the continuous exposure of NETs to the endothelium in a variety of hematologic and autoimmune disorders, including lupus nephritis. This study aims to unravel the mechanisms through which NETs jeopardize vascular integrity. Approach and Results— Microvascular and macrovascular endothelial cells were exposed to NETs, and subsequent effects on endothelial integrity and function were determined in vitro and in vivo. We found that endothelial cells have a limited capacity to internalize NETs via the receptor for advanced glycation endproducts. An overflow of the phagocytic capacity of endothelial cells for NETs resulted in the persistent extracellular presence of NETs, which rapidly altered endothelial cell–cell contacts and induced vascular leakage and transendothelial albumin passage through elastase-mediated proteolysis of the intercellular junction protein VE-cadherin. Furthermore, NET-associated elastase promoted the nuclear translocation of junctional β-catenin and induced endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in cultured endothelial cells. In vivo, NETs could be identified in kidney samples of diseased MRL/lpr mice and patients with lupus nephritis, in whom the glomerular presence of NETs correlated with the severity of proteinuria and with glomerular endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Conclusions— These results indicate that an excess of NETs exceeds the phagocytic capacity of endothelial cells for NETs and promotes vascular leakage and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition through the degradation of VE-cadherin and the subsequent activation of β-catenin signaling. Our data designate NET-associated elastase as a potential therapeutic target in the prevention of endothelial alterations in diseases characterized by aberrant NET release.

Objective Circulating chromatin-containing apoptotic material and/or neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have been proposed to be an important driving force for the antichromatin autoimmune response in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this study was to determine the exact nature of microparticles in the circulation of SLE patients and to assess the effects of the microparticles on the immune system. Methods We analyzed microparticles isolated from the plasma of patients with SLE, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and systemic sclerosis (SSc), as well as from healthy subjects. The effects of the microparticles on blood-derived dendritic cells (DCs) and neutrophils were assessed by flow cytometry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and immunofluorescence microscopy. Results In SLE patients, we identified microparticles that were highly positive for annexin V and apoptosis-modified chromatin that were not present in healthy subjects or in RA or SSc patients. These microparticles were mostly CD31+/CD45– (endothelial), partly CD45+/CD66b+ (granulocyte), and negative for B and T cell markers. Microparticles isolated from the plasma of SLE patients increased the expression of the costimulatory surface molecules CD40, CD80, CD83, and CD86 and the production of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor, and interferon-α by blood-derived plasmacytoid DCs (PDCs) and myeloid DCs (MDCs). SLE microparticles also primed blood-derived neutrophils for NETosis. Microparticles from healthy subjects and from RA or SSc patients exhibited no significant effects on MDCs, PDCs, and NETosis. Conclusion Circulating microparticles in SLE patients include a population of apoptotic cell–derived microparticles that has proinflammatory effects on PDCs and MDCs and enhances NETosis. These results underline the important role of apoptotic microparticles in driving the autoimmune response in SLE patients.

Contains fulltext : 167162.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) Vitamin D plays an important role in renal (patho)physiology. Patients with glomerular diseases have an injured renal filtration barrier, leading to proteinuria and reduced renal function. An impaired renal function also leads to 1,25-vitamin D3 deficiency as a result of reduced renal 1alpha-hydroxylase activity. Vitamin D treatment to reduce proteinuria remains controversial, although there is an inverse correlation between vitamin D levels and proteinuria. Herein, we showed that 1,25-vitamin D3-deficient 25-hydroxy-vitamin-D3-1alpha-hydroxylase knockout mice and 1,25-vitamin D3-deficient rats develop podocyte injury and renal dysfunction. Glomerular injury was characterized by proteinuria and partial podocyte foot process effacement. Expression of nephrin, podocin, desmin, and transient receptor potential channel C6 in the podocyte was significantly altered in 1,25-vitamin D3-deficient animals. Supplementation with 1,25-vitamin D3 or 1,25-vitamin D2 prevented podocyte effacement or reversed glomerular and tubulointerstitial damage in 1,25-vitamin D3-deficient animals, thereby preserving and restoring renal function, respectively. The effect of 1,25-vitamin D3 deficiency and 1,25-vitamin D3 and 1,25-vitamin D2 repletion on proteinuria could not be explained by hypocalcemia, changes in parathyroid hormone, or fibroblast growth factor 23. This study demonstrates that 1,25-vitamin D3 deficiency directly leads to renal injury in rodents. Translated to human subjects, this would underline the need for early vitamin D supplementation in patients with glomerular disease and chronic renal insufficiency, which might inhibit or potentially reverse renal injury.

Contains fulltext : 196100.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access) INTRODUCTION: Proliferative glomerulonephritis manifests in a range of renal diseases and is characterized by the influx of inflammatory cells into the glomerulus. Heparan sulfate (HS) is an important (co-)receptor for binding of chemokines, cytokines and leukocytes to the endothelial glycocalyx, a thick glycan layer that covers the inside of blood vessels. During glomerulonephritis, HS in the glomerular endothelial glycocalyx plays a central role in chemokine presentation and oligomerization, and in binding of selectins and integrins expressed by leukocytes. We hypothesize that distinct endothelial HS domains determine the binding of different chemokines. In this study we evaluated the interaction of three pro-inflammatory chemokines (CXCL1, CXCL2 and CCL2) with mouse glomerular endothelial cells (mGEnC-1) in ELISA in competition with different HS preparations and anti-HS single chain variable fragment (scFv) antibodies specific for distinct HS domains. RESULTS: HS appeared to be the primary ligand mediating chemokine binding to the glomerular endothelial glycocalyx in vitro. We found differential affinities of CXCL1, CXCL2 and CCL2 for HS in isolated mGEnC-1 glycocalyx, heparan sulfate from bovine kidney or low molecular weight heparin in competition ELISAs using mGEnC-1 as a substrate, indicating that chemokine binding is affected by the domain structure of the different HS preparations. Blocking of specific HS domains with anti-HS scFv antibodies revealed a domain-specific interaction of the tested chemokines to HS on mGEnC-1. Furthermore, chemokines did not compete for the same binding sites on mGEnC-1. CONCLUSION: CXCL1, CXCL2 and CCL2 binding to the glomerular endothelial glycocalyx appears differentially mediated by specific HS domains. Our findings may therefore contribute to the development of HS-based treatments for renal and possibly other inflammatory diseases specifically targeting chemokine-endothelial cell interactions.

The glomerular filtration barrier consists of podocytes, the glomerular basement membrane, and endothelial cells covered with a glycocalyx. Heparan sulphate (HS) in the glomerular filtration barrier is reduced in patients with proteinuria, which is associated with increased expression of the HS-degrading enzyme heparanase. Previously, we showed that heparanase is essential for the development of proteinuria in experimental diabetic nephropathy. Vitamin D supplementation reduces podocyte loss and proteinuria in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, we hypothesize that vitamin D reduces proteinuria by reducing glomerular heparanase. Adriamycin-exposed rats developed proteinuria and showed increased heparanase expression, which was reduced by 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25-D3) treatment. In vitro, adriamycin increased heparanase mRNA in the podocyte, which could be corrected by 1,25-D3 treatment. In addition, 1,25-D3 treatment reduced transendothelial albumin passage after adriamycin stimulation. In line with these results, we showed direct binding of the vitamin D receptor to the heparanase promoter, and 1,25-D3 dose-dependently reduced heparanase promoter activity. Finally, 1,25-D3-deficient 25-hydroxy-1α-hydroxylase knockout mice developed proteinuria and showed increased heparanase, which was normalized by 1,25-D3 treatment. Our data suggest that the protective effect of vitamin D on the development of proteinuria is mediated by inhibiting heparanase expression in the podocyte.

Item does not contain fulltext The glomerular endothelial glycocalyx is postulated to be an important modulator of permeability and inflammation. The glycocalyx consists of complex polysaccharides, the main functional constituent of which, heparan sulfate (HS), is synthesized and modified by multiple enzymes. The N-deacetylase-N-sulfotransferase (Ndst) enzymes initiate and dictate the modification process. Here we evaluated the effects of modulation of HS in the endothelial glycocalyx on albuminuria and glomerular leukocyte influx using mice deficient in endothelial and leukocyte Ndst1 (TEKCre+/Ndst1flox/flox). In these mice, glomerular expression of a specific HS domain was significantly decreased, whereas the expression of other HS domains was normal. In the endothelial glycocalyx, this specific HS structure was not associated with albuminuria or with changes in renal function. However, glomerular leukocyte influx was significantly reduced during antiglomerular basement membrane nephritis, which was associated with less glomerular injury and better renal function. In vitro decreased adhesion of wild-type and Ndst1-deficient granulocytes to Ndst1-silenced glomerular endothelial cells was found, accompanied by a decreased binding of chemokines and L-selectin. Thus, modulation of HS in the glomerular endothelial glycocalyx significantly reduced the inflammatory response in antiglomerular basement membrane nephritis.

Contains fulltext : 172463.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the leading cause of CKD in the Western world. Endothelin receptor antagonists have emerged as a novel treatment for DN, but the mechanisms underlying the protective effect remain unknown. We previously showed that both heparanase and endothelin-1 are essential for the development of DN. Here, we further investigated the role of these proteins in DN, and demonstrated that endothelin-1 activates podocytes to release heparanase. Furthermore, conditioned podocyte culture medium increased glomerular transendothelial albumin passage in a heparanase-dependent manner. In mice, podocyte-specific knockout of the endothelin receptor prevented the diabetes-induced increase in glomerular heparanase expression, consequent reduction in heparan sulfate expression and endothelial glycocalyx thickness, and development of proteinuria observed in wild-type counterparts. Our data suggest that in diabetes, endothelin-1 signaling, as occurs in endothelial activation, induces heparanase expression in the podocyte, damage to the glycocalyx, proteinuria, and renal failure. Thus, prevention of these effects may constitute the mechanism of action of endothelin receptor blockers in DN.

Contains fulltext : 118864.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) BackgroundFocal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is a leading cause of steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome. Hereditary FSGS is frequently caused by mutations in important structural podocyte proteins, including the slit diaphragm-associated transient receptor potential channel C6 (TRPC6).MethodsIn five patients with biopsy-proven autosomal-dominant FSGS from five different Dutch families, all 13 exons of TRPC6 were sequenced. Upon identification of a novel TRPC6 sequence variant, the resultant amino acid change was introduced in the wild-type TRPC6 protein and functionally tested using patch-clamp analyses and cell-surface biotinylation experiments.ResultsNone of the previously described TRPC6 mutations were found in our cohort. In one family, we identified a novel c.524G>A sequence variant resulting in a p.Arg175Gln (R175Q) substitution in the TRPC6 protein. This sequence variant was absent in 449 control subjects and from public SNP databases. The mutation was located in the third ankyrin repeat domain (ANK3) in the cytoplasmic N-tail of TRPC6, important for protein-protein interaction and regulation of ion channel activity. Patch-clamp analyses of the mutant channel indeed showed an increased TRPC6 channel-mediated current. However, cell-surface expression of the mutant channel was not increased.ConclusionsWe identified a novel TRPC6 p.Arg175Gln gain-of-function mutation that shows increased TRPC6-mediated current, which is not due to altered cell-surface expression. This is the first mutation identified in ANK3 of the TRPC6 N-tail and is most likely responsible for the late-onset autosomal dominant FSGS in this family.

Contains fulltext : 125856.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) Depending on the glycan structure, proteoglycans can act as coreceptors for growth factors. We hypothesized that proteoglycans and their growth factor ligands orchestrate tissue remodeling in chronic transplant dysfunction. We have previously shown perlecan to be selectively up-regulated in the glomeruli and arteries in a rat renal transplantation model. Using the same model, here we present quantitative RT-PCR profiling data on proteoglycans and growth factors from laser-microdissected glomeruli, arterial tunicae mediae, and neointimae at 12 weeks after transplantation. In glomeruli and neointimae of allografts, selective induction of the matrix heparan sulfate proteoglycan perlecan was observed, along with massive accumulation of fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2). Profiling the heparan sulfate polysaccharide side chains revealed conversion from a non-FGF2-binding heparan sulfate phenotype in control and isografted kidneys toward a FGF2-binding phenotype in allografts. In vitro experiments with perlecan-positive rat mesangial cells showed that FGF2-induced proliferation is dependent on sulfation and can be inhibited by exogenously added heparan sulfate. These findings indicate that matrix proteoglycans such as perlecan serve as functional docking platforms for FGF2 in chronic transplant dysfunction. We speculate that heparin-like glycomimetics could be a promising intervention to retard development of glomerulosclerosis and neointima formation in chronic transplant dysfunction.

Contains fulltext : 170839.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) Proteinuria is one of the first clinical signs of diabetic nephropathy and an independent predictor for the progression to renal failure. Cathepsin L, a lysosomal cysteine protease, can be involved in the development of proteinuria by degradation of proteins that are important for normal podocyte architecture, such as the CD2-associated protein, synaptopodin, and dynamin. Cathepsin L also activates heparanase, a heparan sulfate endoglycosidase previously shown to be crucial for the development of diabetic nephropathy. Here, we evaluated the exact mode of action of cathepsin L in the development of proteinuria in streptozotocin-induced diabetes. Cathepsin L-deficient mice, in contrast to their wild-type littermates, failed to develop albuminuria, mesangial matrix expansion, tubulointerstitial fibrosis, and renal macrophage influx and showed a normal renal function. In wild-type mice the early development of albuminuria correlated with the activation of heparanase and loss of heparan sulfate expression, whereas loss of synaptopodin expression and podocyte damage occurred at a later stage. Thus, cathepsin L is causally involved in the pathogenesis of experimental diabetic nephropathy. Most likely, cathepsin L-dependent heparanase activation is crucial for the development of albuminuria and renal damage.

Persistent exposure of the immune system to death cell debris leads to autoantibodies against chromatin in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Deposition of antichromatin/ chromatin complexes can instigate inflammation in multiple organs including the kidney. Previously we identified specific cell death-associated histone modifications as targets of autoantibodies in SLE. In this study we addressed, in a large cohort of SLE patients and controls, the question whether plasma reactivities with specific histone peptides associated with serology and clinical features. Plasma from SLE patients with and without lupus nephritis, disease controls, and healthy controls, were tested in ELISA with histone H4 peptide acetylated at lysines 8, 12 and 16 (H4p(ac)), H2B peptide acetylated at lysine 12 (H2Bp(ac)), H3 peptide trimethylated at lysine 27 (H3p(me)), and their unmodified equivalents. SLE patients displayed a higher reactivity with the modified equivalent of each peptide. Reactivity with H4p(ac) showed both a high sensitivity (89%) and specificity (91%) for SLE, while H2Bp(ac) exhibited a high specificity (96%) but lower sensitivity (69%). Reactivity with H3p(me) appeared not specific for SLE. Anti-H4p(ac) and anti-H2Bp(ac) reactivity demonstrated a high correlation with disease activity. Moreover, patients reacting with multiple modified histone peptides exhibited higher SLEDAI and lower C3 levels. SLE patients with renal involvement showed higher reactivity with H2B/H2Bp(ac) and a more pronounced reactivity with the modified equivalent of H3p(me) and H2Bp(ac). In conclusion, reactivity with H4p(ac) and H2Bp(ac) is specific for SLE patients and correlates with disease activity, whereas reactivity with H2Bp(ac) is in particular associated with lupus nephritis. Funding Agencies|Dutch Arthritis Association [09-1-308]; German Research Society (DFG) [SFB643-TP-B5]; K & R Wucherpfennig-Stifting; French Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique; Laboratory of Excellence Medalis, Initiative of Excellence (IdEx), Strasbourg University [ANR-10-LABX-0034]

Contains fulltext : 171325.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access) Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are linear negatively charged polysaccharides and important components of extracellular matrices and cell surface glycan layers such as the endothelial glycocalyx. The GAG family includes sulfated heparin, heparan sulfate (HS), dermatan sulfate (DS), chondroitin sulfate (CS), keratan sulfate, and non-sulfated hyaluronan. Because relative expression of GAGs is dependent on cell-type and niche, isolating GAGs from cell cultures and tissues may provide insight into cell- and tissue-specific GAG structure and functions. In our objective to obtain structural information about the GAGs expressed on a specialized mouse glomerular endothelial cell culture (mGEnC-1) we adapted a recently published GAG isolation protocol, based on cell lysis, proteinase K and DNase I digestion. Analysis of the GAGs contributing to the mGEnC-1 glycocalyx indicated a large HS and a minor CS content on barium acetate gel. However, isolated GAGs appeared resistant to enzymatic digestion by heparinases. We found that these GAG extracts were heavily contaminated with RNA, which co-migrated with HS in barium acetate gel electrophoresis and interfered with 1,9-dimethylmethylene blue (DMMB) assays, resulting in an overestimation of GAG yields. We hypothesized that RNA may be contaminating GAG extracts from other cell cultures and possibly tissue, and therefore investigated potential RNA contaminations in GAG extracts from two additional cell lines, human umbilical vein endothelial cells and retinal pigmental epithelial cells, and mouse kidney, liver, spleen and heart tissue. GAG extracts from all examined cell lines and tissues contained varying amounts of contaminating RNA, which interfered with GAG quantification using DMMB assays and characterization of GAGs by barium acetate gel electrophoresis. We therefore recommend routinely evaluating the RNA content of GAG extracts and propose a robust protocol for GAG isolation that includes an RNA digestion step.

Contains fulltext : 172461.PDF (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access) Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) deficiency exacerbates proteinuria and renal injury in several glomerular diseases, but the underlying mechanism is not fully understood. We recently showed that heparanase is essential for the development of experimental diabetic nephropathy and glomerulonephritis, and hypothesize that heparanase expression is regulated by eNOS. Here, we demonstrate that induction of adriamycin nephropathy (AN) in C57BL/6 eNOS-deficient mice leads to an increased glomerular heparanase expression accompanied with overt proteinuria, which was not observed in the AN-resistant wild type counterpart. In vitro, the eNOS inhibitor asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) induced heparanase expression in cultured mouse glomerular endothelial cells. Moreover, ADMA enhanced transendothelial albumin passage in a heparanase-dependent manner. We conclude that eNOS prevents heparanase induction and the development of proteinuria.

Contains fulltext : 172662.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) Heparanase, a heparan sulfate (HS)-specific endoglucuronidase, mediates the onset of proteinuria and renal damage during experimental diabetic nephropathy. Glomerular heparanase expression is increased in most proteinuric diseases. Herein, we evaluated the role of heparanase in two models of experimental glomerulonephritis, being anti-glomerular basement membrane and lipopolysaccharide-induced glomerulonephritis, in wild-type and heparanase-deficient mice. Induction of experimental glomerulonephritis led to an increased heparanase expression in wild-type mice, which was associated with a decreased glomerular expression of a highly sulfated HS domain, and albuminuria. Albuminuria was reduced in the heparanase-deficient mice in both models of experimental glomerulonephritis, which was accompanied by a better renal function and less renal damage. Notably, glomerular HS expression was preserved in the heparanase-deficient mice. Glomerular leukocyte and macrophage influx was reduced in the heparanase-deficient mice, which was accompanied by a reduced expression of both types 1 and 2 helper T-cell cytokines. In vitro, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and lipopolysaccharide directly induced heparanase expression and increased transendothelial albumin passage. Our study shows that heparanase contributes to proteinuria and renal damage in experimental glomerulonephritis by decreasing glomerular HS expression, enhancing renal leukocyte and macrophage influx, and affecting the local cytokine milieu.

Contains fulltext : 171013.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access) Complement factor H (FH) inhibits complement activation and interacts with glomerular endothelium via its complement control protein domains 19 and 20, which also recognize heparan sulfate (HS). Abnormalities in FH are associated with the renal diseases atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome and dense deposit disease and the ocular disease age-related macular degeneration. Although FH systemically controls complement activation, clinical phenotypes selectively manifest in kidneys and eyes, suggesting the presence of tissue-specific determinants of disease development. Recent results imply the importance of tissue-specifically expressed, sulfated glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), like HS, in determining FH binding to and activity on host tissues. Therefore, we investigated which GAGs mediate human FH and recombinant human FH complement control proteins domains 19 and 20 (FH19-20) binding to mouse glomerular endothelial cells (mGEnCs) in ELISA. Furthermore, we evaluated the functional defects of FH19-20 mutants during complement activation by measuring C3b deposition on mGEnCs using flow cytometry. FH and FH19-20 bound dose-dependently to mGEnCs and TNF-alpha treatment increased binding of both proteins, whereas heparinase digestion and competition with heparin/HS inhibited binding. Furthermore, 2-O-, and 6-O-, but not N-desulfation of heparin, significantly increased the inhibitory effect on FH19-20 binding to mGEnCs. Compared with wild type FH19-20, atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome-associated mutants were less able to compete with FH in normal human serum during complement activation on mGEnCs, confirming their potential glomerular pathogenicity. In conclusion, our study shows that FH and FH19-20 binding to glomerular endothelial cells is differentially mediated by HS but not other GAGs. Furthermore, we describe a novel, patient serum-independent competition assay for pathogenicity screening of FH19-20 mutants.

Contains fulltext : 96157.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) Various studies indicate a role for both anti-nucleosome and anti-C1q autoantibodies in glomerulonephritis in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. However, a causal relationship between these autoantibodies and the development of lupus nephritis has not been fully established. Since injury of the endothelium is a major target in lupus nephritis we assessed the interaction of C1q and nucleosomes with glomerular endothelial cells in vitro in the presence or absence of autoantibodies against these antigens. We demonstrate a direct and dose-dependent binding of both nucleosomes and C1q to immortalized human glomerular endothelial cells (GEnC) in vitro, which in part is mediated by cell surface heparan sulfate. We demonstrate that nucleosomes and C1q serve as targets for monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies as well as for anti-nuclear autoantibodies from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. An additive effect of anti-C1q autoantibodies on anti-nucleosome mediated complement activation was observed. Furthermore, we showed that the activation of complement on glomerular endothelial cells is mediated by the classical pathway since the deposition of C3 on GEnC is abrogated by MgEGTA and does not occur in C1q-depleted serum. Taken together, our studies demonstrate a direct binding of both nucleosomes and C1q to glomerular endothelial cells in vitro. The subsequent binding of autoantibodies against nucleosomes in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus is potentially pathogenic and autoantibodies against C1q seem to have an additional effect.

Contains fulltext : 97633.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) The transient receptor potential channel C6 (TRPC6) is a slit diaphragm-associated protein in podocytes involved in regulating glomerular filter function. Gain-of-function mutations in TRPC6 cause hereditary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), and several human acquired proteinuric diseases show increased glomerular TRPC6 expression. Angiotensin II (AngII) is a key contributor to glomerular disease and may regulate TRPC6 expression in nonrenal cells. We demonstrate that AngII regulates TRPC6 mRNA and protein levels in cultured podocytes and that AngII infusion enhances glomerular TRPC6 expression in vivo. In animal models for human FSGS (doxorubicin nephropathy) and increased renin-angiotensin system activity (Ren2 transgenic rats), glomerular TRPC6 expression was increased in an AngII-dependent manner. TRPC6 expression correlated with glomerular damage markers and glomerulosclerosis. We show that the regulation of TRPC6 expression by AngII and doxorubicin requires TRPC6-mediated Ca(2+) influx and the activation of the Ca(2+)-dependent protein phosphatase calcineurin and its substrate nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT). Accordingly, calcineurin inhibition by cyclosporine decreased TRPC6 expression and reduced proteinuria in doxorubicin nephropathy, whereas podocyte-specific inducible expression of a constitutively active NFAT mutant increased TRPC6 expression and induced severe proteinuria. Our findings demonstrate that the deleterious effects of AngII on podocytes and its pathogenic role in glomerular disease involve enhanced TRPC6 expression via a calcineurin/NFAT positive feedback signaling pathway.

Contains fulltext : 96643.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) OBJECTIVES: In systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) apoptotic chromatin is present extracellularly, which is most likely the result of disturbed apoptosis and/or insufficient removal. Released chromatin, modified during apoptosis, activates the immune system resulting in the formation of autoantibodies. A study was undertaken to identify apoptosis-induced histone modifications that play a role in SLE. METHODS: The lupus-derived monoclonal antibody BT164, recently established by selection using apoptotic nucleosomes, was analysed by ELISA, western blot analysis and immunofluorescence staining using chromatin, cells, plasma and renal sections. Random peptide phage display and peptide inhibition ELISA were used to identify precisely the epitope of BT164. The reactivity of plasma samples from lupus mice and patients with SLE with the epitope of BT164 was investigated by peptide ELISA. RESULTS: The epitope of BT164 was mapped in the N-terminal tail of histone H3 (27-KSAPAT-32) and included the apoptosis-induced trimethylation of K27. siRNA-mediated silencing of histone demethylases in cultured cells resulted in hypermethylation of H3K27 and increased nuclear reactivity of BT164. This apoptosis-induced H3K27me3 is a target for autoantibodies in patients and mice with SLE and is present in plasma and in glomerular deposits. CONCLUSION: In addition to previously identified acetylation of histone H4, H2A and H2B, this study shows that trimethylation of histone H3 on lysine 27 is induced by apoptosis and associated with autoimmunity in SLE. This finding is important for understanding the autoimmune response in SLE and for the development of translational strategies.

Contains fulltext : 96381.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) In our research on the role of apoptosis in the pathogenesis of the autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), we aim to evaluate the effects of early and late apoptotic cells and blebs on antigen presenting cells. This requires the in vitro generation of sufficiently large and homogeneous populations of early and late apoptotic cells. Here, we present a quick method encountered by serendipity that results in highly reproducible synchronized homogeneous apoptotic cell populations. In brief, granulocytic 32Dcl3 cells are incubated on ice for 2 h and subsequently rewarmed at 37 degrees C. After 30-90 min at 37 degrees C more than 80-90% of the cells become early apoptotic (Annexin V positive/propidium iodide negative). After 24 h of rewarming at 37 degrees C 98% of the cells were late apoptotic (secondary necrotic; Annexin V positive/propidium iodide positive). Cells already formed apoptotic blebs at their cell surface after approximately 20 min at 37 degrees C. Inter-nucleosomal chromatin cleavage and caspase activation were other characteristics of this cold-shock-induced process of apoptosis. Consequently, apoptosis could be inhibited by a caspase inhibitor. Finally, SLE-derived anti-chromatin autoantibodies showed a high affinity for apoptotic blebs generated by cold-shock. Overall, cold-shock induced apoptosis is achieved without the addition of toxic compounds or antibodies, and quickly leads to synchronized homogeneous apoptotic cell populations, which can be applied for various research questions addressing apoptosis.

Contains fulltext : 87620.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access) Renal involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus patients is a severe disease manifestation characterized by various clinical and histopathological alterations. The revised International Society of Nephrology/Renal Pathology Society 2003 classification defines the subclasses of lupus nephritis (LN) according to their pathological glomerular patterns, which has a crucial impact on the prognosis and treatment options for LN patients. There are widely accepted therapeutic agents available, such as cyclophosphamide, mycophenolate mofetil, azathioprine and corticosteroids. Several trials have tried to determine a gold standard for induction and maintenance therapy in LN, and the place of newer drugs, biologicals, has been investigated. We review recently reported data on current treatment regimens in LN, in particular in the context of the International Society of Nephrology/Renal Pathology Society 2003 classification. 01 november 2010

Objective.C-C chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) plays an important role in inflammation. A 32 base-pair (Δ32) deletion in the CCR5 gene leads to a nonfunctional receptor. This deletion has been reported to have a protective effect on the development and progression of several autoimmune diseases. We investigated whether the Δ32 deletion is associated with disease susceptibility in a population of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and lupus nephritis (LN); and whether it is associated with disease severity.MethodsDNA samples from 405 RA patients, 97 SLE patients, 113 LN patients, and 431 healthy controls were genotyped for the CCR5 Δ32 deletion. Differences in genotype frequencies were tested between patients and controls. Association of genotypes with disease severity was analyzed.ResultsGenotype frequencies of each group were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The genotype frequencies of patients did not differ significantly from controls (CCR5/Δ32, Δ32/Δ32: RA 18.3% and 1.2%, respectively; SLE 17.5% and 2.1%; LN 13.3% and 1.8%; controls 20.0% and 2.8%). However, there was a trend for lower Δ32 deletion allele frequency in LN patients compared to controls (p = 0.08). There was no significant association between the CCR5 status and disease severity in RA, SLE, or LN.Conclusion.Although an association with LN cannot be excluded, the CCR5 Δ32 deletion does not seem to be a disease susceptibility genotype for RA, SLE, or LN. No significant effect of the Δ32 deletion on disease severity was demonstrated.

Contains fulltext : 88616.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) BACKGROUND: alpha-Dystroglycan (alpha-DG) is a negatively charged glycoprotein that covers the surface of podocytes. A decreased glomerular expression of alpha-DG has been described in minimal change nephropathy (MCN), but not in focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). This was suggested as a tool to distinguish these diseases. Sialic acid is a negatively charged carbohydrate extensively present on both alpha-DG and podocalyxin, which is also expressed on podocytes. Intrarenal perfusion with bacterial sialidase leads to foot process effacement and proteinuria. This is the first study on the expression of endogenous glomerular sialidase; furthermore, the expression of dystroglycan was re-evaluated. METHODS: The expression of alpha-DG and sialidase was investigated by immunofluorescence in kidney biopsies of patients with MCN (n = 5), FSGS (n = 15), proliferative lupus nephritis (LN, n = 9), membranous glomerulopathy (MG, n = 10) and normal human kidneys (NHK, n = 4). The urinary sialic acid concentration was measured using a newly developed LC-tandem mass spectrometry method. RESULTS: A 3-fold increased glomerular expression of sialidase was found in MG, accompanied with an increased urinary sialic acid concentration in two MG patients. However, we did not observe major changes in the expression of alpha-DG in patients with the above-mentioned glomerular diseases compared to NHK, also not between MCN and FSGS. CONCLUSIONS: Endogenous glomerular sialidase expression is increased in MG, which might represent a novel mechanism for the loss of negative charge in the glomerular capillary filter. The expression of dystroglycan cannot be used as a diagnostic tool to differentiate between glomerular diseases. 01 februari 2010

Contains fulltext : 81723.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) BACKGROUND: Inhibition of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) provides renoprotection in adriamycin nephropathy (AN), along with a decrease in overexpression of glomerular heparanase. Angiotensin II (AngII) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are known to regulate heparanase expression in vivo. However, it is unknown whether this is also the case for aldosterone. Therefore, we further assessed the role of aldosterone, AngII and ROS in the regulation of glomerular heparanase expression. METHODS: Six weeks after the induction of AN, rats were treated with vehicle (n = 8), lisinopril (75 mg/L, n = 10), spironolactone (3.3 mg/day, n = 12) or the combination of lisinopril and spironolactone (n = 14) for 12 weeks. Age-matched healthy rats served as controls (n = 6). After 18 weeks, renal heparanase and heparan sulfate (HS) expression were examined by immunofluorescence staining. In addition, the effect of aldosterone, AngII and ROS on heparanase expression in cultured podocytes was determined. RESULTS: Treatment with lisinopril, spironolactone or their combination significantly blunted the increased glomerular heparanase expression and restored the decreased HS expression in the GBM. Addition of aldosterone to cultured podocytes resulted in a significantly increased heparanase mRNA and protein expression, which could be inhibited by spironolactone. Heparanase mRNA and protein expression in podocytes were also significantly increased after stimulation with AngII or ROS. CONCLUSIONS: Our in vivo and in vitro results show that not only AngII and ROS, but also aldosterone is involved in the regulation of glomerular heparanase expression.

Contains fulltext : 79691.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) OBJECTIVE: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the formation of antinuclear autoantibodies. Increased apoptosis and reduced clearance of apoptotic material have been assigned a role in the pathogenesis of SLE, but the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. During apoptosis apoptotic blebs are formed in which autoantigens are clustered. The cellular remnants after blebbing are referred to as apoptotic cell bodies. We undertook this study to compare the effects of apoptotic blebs and apoptotic cell bodies on maturation of dendritic cells (DCs) and their T cell stimulatory capacity in a murine setting. METHODS: The uptake by DCs of apoptotic blebs and apoptotic cell bodies was analyzed by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. DC maturation and DC-induced T cell activation were determined by measuring expression of costimulatory molecules using flow cytometry and by measuring production of cytokines using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: DCs internalized apoptotic blebs more efficiently than apoptotic cell bodies. Incubation of DCs with apoptotic blebs resulted in increased CD40 and CD86 expression and increased interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha production, while apoptotic cell bodies had no stimulatory effects. Using chloroquine, apoptotic bleb-induced DC maturation was shown to be independent of Toll-like receptors 3, 7, and 9. Interestingly, in cocultures with allogeneic T cells, bleb-matured DCs induced production of IL-2, interferon-gamma, and, in particular, IL-17, suggesting a Th1/Th17 response. CONCLUSION: Apoptotic blebs, in contrast to apoptotic cell bodies, induce DC maturation, thereby providing DCs with increased Th17 cell stimulatory capacity. These data imply that apoptotic bleb-induced DC maturation represents an important driving force in the autoimmune response in SLE.

Contains fulltext : 71200.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access) Heparan sulfate in the glomerular basement membrane has been considered crucial for charge-selective filtration. In many proteinuric diseases, increased glomerular expression of heparanase is associated with decreased heparan sulfate. Here, we used mice overexpressing heparanase and evaluated the expression of different heparan sulfate domains in the kidney and other tissues measured with anti-heparan sulfate antibodies. Glycosaminoglycan-associated anionic sites were visualized by the cationic dye cupromeronic blue. Transgenic mice showed a differential loss of heparan sulfate domains in several tissues. An unmodified and a sulfated heparan sulfate domain resisted heparanase action in vivo and in vitro. Glycosaminoglycan-associated anionic sites were reduced about fivefold in the glomerular basement membrane of transgenic mice, whereas glomerular ultrastructure and renal function remained normal. Heparanase-resistant heparan sulfate domains may represent remnant chains or chains not susceptible to cleavage. Importantly, the strong reduction of glycosaminoglycan-associated anionic sites in the glomerular basement membrane without development of a clear renal phenotype questions the primary role of heparan sulfate in charge-selective filtration. We cannot, however, exclude that overexpression of heparanase and heparan sulfate loss in the basement membrane in glomerular diseases contributes to proteinuria.

Contains fulltext : 51758.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access) BACKGROUND: Minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) is the most frequent form of nephrotic syndrome in childhood. In the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) of adult patients with MCNS, a reduced expression of a specific heparan sulphate (HS) domain has been reported. In children with MCNS, urinary activity of the HS-degrading enzyme heparanase was increased. It is, therefore, possible that a decreased GBM HS expression is associated with the pathogenesis of proteinuria in patients with MCNS. METHODS: In this study, HS in glomeruli of five adult and six paediatric patients with MCNS were analysed by immunofluorescence staining using four different antibodies, each defining a specific sulphated HS domain. The pediatric patients were subdivided into three groups depending on the presence or absence of podocyte foot process effacement, the level of proteinuria and prednisone administration at the time of the biopsy. In addition, kidneys of rats with adriamycin nephropathy (ADRN), a model for MCNS, were included in the study. RESULTS: Expression of sulphated HS domains was not aberrant in adult or paediatric patients compared with control subjects. Children with and without proteinuria had the same HS content. In contrast, rats with ADRN showed a decreased glomerular expression of sulphated HS domains. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that in patients with MCNS proteinuria is not associated with major changes in glomerular expression of sulphated HS domains.

Contains fulltext : 53032.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access) Heparan sulfates (HS) are long, unbranched, negatively charged polysaccharides that are bound to core proteins. HS in the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) is reported to be important for charge-selective permeability. Aberrant GBM HS expression has been observed in several glomerular diseases, such as diabetic nephropathy and membranous glomerulopathy, and a decrease in HS generally is associated with proteinuria. This study, with the use of a controlled in vivo approach, evaluated whether degradation of HS in rat GBM resulted in acute proteinuria. Rats received two intravenous injections of either heparinase III to digest HS or neuraminidase to remove neuraminic acids (positive control). Urine samples were taken at various time points, and at the end of the experiment, kidneys were removed and analyzed. Injection with heparinase III resulted in a complete loss of glomerular HS as demonstrated by immunofluorescence staining using anti-HS antibodies and by electron microscopy using cupromeronic blue in a critical electrolyte concentration mode. In the urine, a strong increase in HS was found within 2 h after the first injection. Staining for agrin, the major HS proteoglycan core protein in the GBM, was unaltered. No urinary albumin or other proteins were detected at any time point, and no changes in glomerular morphology were noticed. Injection of rats with neuraminidase, however, resulted in a major increase of urinary albumin and was associated with an increase in urinary free neuraminic acid. An increased glomerular staining with Peanut agglutinin lectin, indicative of removal of neuraminic acid, was noted. In conclusion, removal of HS from the GBM does not result in acute albuminuria, whereas removal of neuraminic acid does.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune disease with various clinical manifestations. The hallmark of SLE is the presence of antibodies against nuclear constituents, such as double-stranded (ds)DNA, histones, and nucleosomes. Local deposition of antinuclear antibodies in complex with nuclear autoantigens induces serious inflammatory conditions that can affect several tissues and organs, including the kidney.The levels of antinucleosome and anti-dsDNA antibodies seem to correlate with glomerulonephritis and these autoantibodies can often be detected years before the patient is diagnosed with SLE. Apoptotic debris is present in the extracellular matrix and circulation of patients with SLE due to an aberrant process of apoptosis and/or insufficient clearance of apoptotic cells and apoptotic debris. The non-cleared apoptotic debris in patients with SLE may lead to activation of both the innate (myeloid and plasmacytoid dendritic cells) and adaptive (T and B cells) immune system. In addition to the activation by apoptotic debris and immune complexes, the immune system in SLE may be deregulated at the level of (a) presentation of self-peptides by antigen-presenting cells, (b) selection processes for both B and T cells, and (c) regulatory processes of B- and T-cell responses. Lupus nephritis may be classified in different classes based on histological findings in renal biopsies. The chromatin-containing immune complexes deposit in the capillary filter, most likely due to the interaction of chromatin with the polysaccharide heparan sulphate. A decreased renal expression of the endonuclease DNaseI further contributes to the glomerular persistence of chromatin and the development of glomerulonephritis.Current treatment of lupus nephritis is not specific and aims to reduce the inflammatory response with general immunosuppressive therapies. However, research has revealed novel potential therapeutic candidates at the level of dendritic cells, B cells, and T cells.

Laboratory techniques (electrophoresis, indirect immunofluorescence, ELISA, and immunoblotting) required for immunological investigation of the patient with renal disease are described. Renal disease-related aspects of immunoglobulins (immunoglobulin A, paraproteins, cryoglobulins), complement, antinuclear antibodies, anti-C1q antibodies, antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies, anti-glomerular basement membrane antibodies, antipodocyte antibodies, antiphospholipid antibodies, and antimicrobial responses (streptococci, hepatitis C, hepatitis B) are reviewed. Laboratory assays which evaluate the immune response, in particular the identification of (auto)-antibodies are valuable tools in establishing a diagnosis and/or monitoring of the activity of the disease. Guidelines are given for immunological studies in patients with specific renal syndromes including nephrotic syndrome, rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and thrombotic microangiopathy.

Among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) there is an increased risk of haematological malignancies, especially non-Hodgkin lymphoma. However, the association of SLE with aggressive CD3 negative natural killer (NK)-cell leukaemia has not been reported so far. We present a case of a 39-year-old woman with SLE, aggressive NK-cell leukaemia and tuberous sclerosis complex. The prior probability of developing the combination of these three rare diseases by coincidence is extremely low (−13). Possible underlying immunological, genetic and toxic/environmental pathways are discussed.

The glomerular filtration barrier consists of podocytes, the glomerular basement membrane, and endothelial cells covered with a glycocalyx. Heparan sulphate (HS) in the glomerular filtration barrier is reduced in patients with proteinuria, which is associated with increased expression of the HS-degrading enzyme heparanase. Previously, we showed that heparanase is essential for the development of proteinuria in experimental diabetic nephropathy. Vitamin D supplementation reduces podocyte loss and proteinuria in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, we hypothesize that vitamin D reduces proteinuria by reducing glomerular heparanase. Adriamycin-exposed rats developed proteinuria and showed increased heparanase expression, which was reduced by 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25-D3) treatment. In vitro, adriamycin increased heparanase mRNA in the podocyte, which could be corrected by 1,25-D3 treatment. In addition, 1,25-D3 treatment reduced transendothelial albumin passage after adriamycin stimulation. In line with these results, we showed direct binding of the vitamin D receptor to the heparanase promoter, and 1,25-D3 dose-dependently reduced heparanase promoter activity. Finally, 1,25-D3-deficient 25-hydroxy-1α-hydroxylase knockout mice developed proteinuria and showed increased heparanase, which was normalized by 1,25-D3 treatment. Our data suggest that the protective effect of vitamin D on the development of proteinuria is mediated by inhibiting heparanase expression in the podocyte.

Summary In addition to disturbed apoptosis and insufficient clearance of apoptotic cells, there is recent evidence for a role of neutrophils in the aetiopathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In response to various stimuli, neutrophils can rapidly release DNA fibres decorated with citrullinated histones and anti-microbial peptides. These structures are referred to as neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). In addition to apoptotic cell-derived microparticles, these NETs may comprise a further source of autoantigens, able to drive the autoimmune response in SLE. Our group recently identified specific histone modifications occurring during apoptosis that play an important role in the autoimmune response in SLE. In the current study, we evaluated the presence and immunostimulatory potential of these previously identified histone modifications in NETs. Compared to NETs from healthy donors, the histones present in NETs formed by SLE-derived neutrophils contain increased amounts of acetylated and methylated residues, which we previously observed to be associated with apoptosis and SLE. Treatment of neutrophils with histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor Trichostatin A (TSA), prior to induction of NETosis, induced NETs containing hyperacetylated histones, endowed with an increased capacity to activate macrophages. This implies that specific histone modifications, in particular acetylation, might enhance the immunostimulatory potential of NETs in SLE.

Item does not contain fulltext Autoantibodies against nucleosomes are considered a hallmark of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We compared in patients with proliferative lupus nephritis the diagnostic usefulness of a dsDNA-loaded nucleosome ELISA (anti-dsDNA-NcX) with ELISAs in which dsDNA or nucleosomes alone were coated. First, we analysed whether DNA loading on nucleosomes led to masking of epitopes by using defined monoclonal anti-DNA, anti-histone and nucleosome-specific autoantibodies to evaluate the accessibility of nucleosomal epitopes in the anti-dsDNA-NcX ELISA. Second, autoantibody levels were measured in these 3 ELISAs in 100 patients with proliferative lupus nephritis (LN) before immunosuppressive treatment and in 128 non-SLE disease controls. In patients with LN inter-assay comparisons and associations with clinical and serological parameters were analysed. The panel of monoclonal antibodies revealed that all epitopes were equally accessible in the anti-dsDNA-NcX ELISA as in the two other ELISAs. Patients with proliferative lupus nephritis were positive with dsDNA-loaded nucleosomes in 86%, with DNA in 66% and with nucleosomes in 85%. In the non-lupus disease control group these frequencies were 1.6% (2 out of 128) for both the anti-dsDNA-NcX and the anti-dsDNA ELISA and 0% in the anti-nucleosome ELISA. The levels in the anti-dsDNA-NcX ELISA were high in a group of patients with LN that showed absent reactivity in the anti-DNA or low levels in the anti-nucleosome ELISA. Anti-dsDNA-NcX positivity was associated with higher SLEDAI scores within this group. Within nucleosome-based ELISAs, we propose the anti-dsDNA-NcX ELISA as the preferred test system.

Item does not contain fulltext Mycophenolic acid (MPA) has become the cornerstone in the treatment of lupus nephritis. However, response rates are still far from ideal in clinical trials. Uncertainty exists regarding the correct dosing of MPA, and the recommended doses vary between recently published guidelines. Side effects are an additional problem resulting in frequent dose reduction and possible suboptimal exposure.In this review, we discuss the large variability between patients in drug exposure to MPA and the evidence for a relationship between drug exposure and efficacy in lupus nephritis. Methods for drug monitoring of MPA are discussed, and based on the current literature, we suggest as potential target levels a pre-dose level of 3.0 mg/L and an area under the concentration-versus-time curve between 35 and 45 mg h/L.Therapeutic drug monitoring may improve response rates in lupus nephritis by preventing low exposure and at the same time may reduce unnecessary side effects in patients who have high drug exposure with standard dose MPA. We specifically advise assessment of MPA drug exposure early after start of treatment and before concluding that treatment with MPA has failed.

Contains fulltext : 155182.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access) INTRODUCTION: Systemic lupus erythematosus is associated with a persistent circulation of modified autoantigen-containing apoptotic debris that might be capable of breaking tolerance. We aimed to evaluate apoptotic microvesicles obtained from lupus or control mice for the presence of apoptosis-associated chromatin modifications and for their capacity to stimulate dendritic cells (DC) from lupus and control mice. METHOD: Apoptotic microvesicles were in vitro generated from splenocytes, and ex vivo isolated from plasma of both MRL/lpr lupus mice and normal BALB/c mice. Microvesicles were analyzed using flow cytometry. Bone marrow-derived (BM)-DC cultured from MRL/lpr or BALB/c mice were incubated with microvesicles and CD40 expression and cytokine production were determined as measure of activation. RESULTS: Microvesicles derived from apoptotic splenocytes or plasma of MRL/lpr mice contained more modified chromatin compared to microvesicles of BALB/c mice, and showed enhanced activation of DC, either from MRL/lpr or BALB/c mice, and consecutively an enhanced DC-mediated activation of splenocytes. The content of apoptosis-modified chromatin in microvesicles of apoptotic splenocytes correlated with their potency to induce interleukin-6 (IL-6) production by DC. Microvesicle-activated MRL/lpr DC showed a significant higher production of IL-6 and tumor growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) compared to BALB/c DC, and were more potent in the activation of splenocytes. CONCLUSION: Apoptotic microvesicles from MRL/lpr mice are more potent activators of DC, and DC from MRL/lpr mice appear relatively more sensitive to activation by apoptotic microvesicles. Our findings indicate that aberrations at the level of apoptotic microvesicles and possibly DC contribute to the autoimmune response against chromatin in MRL/lpr mice.

Contains fulltext : 49843.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) Dermatan sulfate (DS) is a member of the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) family and is primarily located in the extracellular matrix. Using a modified phage display procedure, we selected 2 different antibodies against DS of which one antibody, LKN1, was specific for DS. LKN1 was especially reactive with 4/2,4-di-O-sulfated DS, and did not react with other classes of GAGs including chondroitin sulfate and heparan sulfate. Immunohistochemical analysis of kidney, skin and tendon showed a typical fibrillar staining pattern, co-localizing with type I collagen. Staining was abolished by specific enzymatic digestion of DS. Immunoelectron microscopy confirmed the association of the DS epitope with collagen fibrils. The location of DS did not follow the main banding period of collagen, which is in line with the current concept that the core protein rather than the DS moiety of DS-proteoglycans specifically binds to collagen fibrils. This unique anti-DS antibody and the availability of its coding DNA may be instrumental in studies of the structure and function of DS.

Contains fulltext : 50901.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) In overt diabetic nephropathy (DNP), an increase in the permeability of the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) has been associated with a loss of negatively charged heparan sulfates (HS) in the GBM. Heparanase (HPSE), an endo-beta(1-4)-D-glucuronidase, can cleave HS and could be a potential candidate for the degradation of glomerular HS, leading to the development of proteinuria. We analyzed whether changes in HS expression are associated with HPSE expression in overt DNP. Immunofluorescence staining was performed to analyze HS, HPSE, and agrin core protein expression in kidney biopsies from patients with overt DNP and from rats and mice with streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes. We also investigated the effect of transgenic HPSE overexpression in mice on glomerular HS and agrin expression. We demonstrate that the loss of GBM HS (-50%) and tubular HS (-60%) is associated with a four-fold increased HPSE expression in overt DNP. In addition, glomerular HPSE expression is upregulated in rats (messenger RNA (mRNA) 2.5-fold, protein three-fold) and mice (mRNA seven-fold, protein 1.5-fold) with STZ-induced diabetes. Furthermore, transgenic HPSE overexpression results in disappearance of HS, whereas expression of the core protein agrin remains unaltered. Our observations suggest that HPSE is involved in the pathogenesis of proteinuria in overt DNP by degradation of HS.Kidney International (2006) 70, 2100-2108. doi:10.1038/sj.ki.5001985; published online 18 October 2006.

Contains fulltext : 51289.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access)

Contains fulltext : 47800.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) BACKGROUND: Glomerular hyperfiltration plays a role in the pathophysiology of diabetic nephropathy. An increase in the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) could result from primary actions at the glomerular/vascular level or could be the consequence of a primary increase in proximal tubular sodium reabsorption resulting in systemic volume expansion. Recently it was hypothesized that an increase in sodium reabsorption may lead to glomerular hyperfiltration through the tubulo-glomerular feedback mechanism (tubular-hypothesis) without volume expansion. DESIGN: We have studied 54 normoalbuminuric patients with type 1 diabetes. The GFR was measured by inulin clearance. Proximal and distal sodium reabsorption were calculated according to standard formulas using the free water clearance technique. Plasma volume, measured by the (125)I-albumin method, atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and the second messenger cyclic guanosine-3,5-monophosphate (c-GMP) were used as markers of extracellular volume expansion. RESULTS: Glomerular hyperfiltration (GFR >or= 130 mL min(-1) 1.73 m(-2)) was present in 14 out of 55 patients with diabetes (25%). There were no differences in plasma volume between normo-(NF) and hyper-filtrating (HF) patients (2933 +/- 423 in NF vs. 3026 +/- 562 mL in HF, NS). Also plasma ANP and c-GMP levels were not significantly different between the groups. The fractional proximal reabsorption of sodium was significantly increased in HF [fPRNa(+) (%) 90.1 +/- 2.0 vs. 91.5 +/- 1.6, P = 0.02]. There were no differences in distal sodium reabsorption or distal sodium load (approximately macula densa concentration of NaCl) in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest that the primary event in diabetic glomerular hyperfiltration is an increase in proximal tubular sodium reabsorption. They do not support the hypothesis that systemic volume expansion or ANP mediate glomerular hyperfiltration in patients with normoalbuminuric type 1 diabetes. As such, changes in tubular sodium handling most probably influence tubulo-glomerular feedback.

Item does not contain fulltext Our increased understanding of the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus is leading to new ideas about its therapy. In this session of the workshop the use of LJP 394 a B cell toleragen and the use of an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody were discussed in some detail. Their rationale and early clinical results were reviewed; both have shown encouraging clinical and serological benefit. Definitive double-blind clinical trials are still, however, awaited. In addition, the intriguing notion of using a nasal instillation of a histone peptide was described and early work in an experimental model presented.

Contains fulltext : 184929.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) A new assay was developed to measure the N-deacetylase activity of the glucosaminyl N-deacetylase/N-sulfotransferases (NDSTs), which are key enzymes in sulfation of heparan sulfate (HS)/heparin. The assay is based on the recognition of NDST-generated N-unsubstituted glucosamine units in Escherichia coli K5 capsular polysaccharide or in HSs by monoclonal antibody JM-403. Substrate specificity and potential product inhibition of the NDST isoforms 1 and 2 were analyzed by comparing lysates of human 293 kidney cells stably transfected with mouse NDST-1 or -2. We found HSs to be excellent substrates for both NDST enzymes. Both NDST-1 and -2 N-deacetylate heparan sulfate from human aorta ( approximately 0.6 sulfate groups/disaccharide) with comparable high efficiency, apparent Km values of 0.35 and 0.76 microM (calculation based on [HexA]) being lower (representing a higher affinity) than those for K5 polysaccharide (13.3 and 4.7 microM, respectively). Comparison of various HS preparations and the unsulfated K5 polysaccharide as substrates indicate that both NDST-1 and -2 can differentially N-sulfate polysaccharides already modified to some extent by various other enzymes involved in HS/heparin synthesis. Both enzymes were equally inhibited by N-sulfated sequences (>or=6 sugar residues) present in N-sulfated K5, N-deacetylated N-resulfated HS, and heparin. Our primary findings were confirmed in the conventional N-deacetylase assay measuring the release of 3H-acetate of radiolabeled K5 or HS as substrates. We furthermore showed that NDST N-deacetylase activity in crude cell/tissue lysates can be partially blocked by endogenous HS/heparin. We speculate that in HS biosynthesis, some NDST variants initiate HS modification/sulfation reactions, whereas other (or the same) NDST isoforms later on fill in or extend already modified HS sequences.

Background It has been reported that sodium-lithium countertransport (Na/Li CT) activity is increased in patients with diabetes mellitus and that this increased Na/Li CT activity is associated with the development of diabetic nephropathy. It is unclear however, whether Na/ Li CT is related to other pathophysiological factors in diabetic patients. We studied kinetic parameters of Na/Li CT activity together with other putative risk factors for microangiopathy in normoalbuminuric type 1 diabetic patients and matched control subjects. Subjects and methods We measured maximum velocity (V max ) and sodium affinity (K m ) of Na/Li CT in 53 diabetic patients and 45 healthy controls. Endothelial function was assessed by monitoring forearm vascular response to intrabrachial infusion of acetylcholine. Blood samples were collected for measurement of HbAlc, glucose, insulin and lipids. Blood pressure was measured intra-arterially. Renal haemodynamics were measured by inulin/p-aminohippurate clearance. Urinary albumin was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Transcapillary escape of albumin (TERalb) was calculated by the disappearance curve of 125 I-labelled albumin. Results V max was increased in diabetic patients (779 ± 36 μmol Li + h -1 L -1 erythrocytes vs. 623 ± 35 in controls, P < 0.01), whereas K m was decreased (64 ± 16 mmol L -1 vs. 76 ± 27 in controls, P = 0.03). The ratio of V max : K m was 12.4 ± 0.6 in diabetic patients and 8.9 ± 0.9 in controls (P < 0.001). When comparing diabetic patients in the lowest and highest quartile of V max or K m there were no differences in blood pressure, renal haemodynamics, urinary albumin excretion, TERalb, endothelial function, HbA1c, glucose, insulin, or lipid profile. Conclusion Na/Li CT is increased in uncomplicated type 1 diabetes and characterized by an increase in V max and a decrease in K m . The increase in Na/Li CT is not associated with changes in endothelial function, degree of metabolic control, blood pressure or renal haemodynamics.

Contains fulltext : 138120.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Closed access) Slit diaphragm and podocyte damage is crucial in the pathogenesis of proteinuria in diabetic nephropathy (DNP). Gain-of-function mutations in TRPC6, a slit diaphragm-associated ion channel, cause glomerulosclerosis; TRPC6 expression is increased in acquired glomerular disease. Hyperglycemia and high intrarenal angiotensin II (AngII) levels could contribute to podocyte injury in DNP. We determined whether glucose regulates TRPC6 expression and TRPC6-mediated Ca(2+) influx into the podocyte and whether these effects are AngII dependent. High glucose levels increased TRPC6 mRNA and protein expression in cultured podocytes; however, TRPC1 and TRPC5 mRNA expression was unaltered. AngII and inducing podocyte injury also specifically increased TRPC6 expression. Angiotensin receptor blockade and inhibition of local AngII production through angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition prevented glucose-mediated increased TRPC6 expression. In addition, high glucose concentration pretreatment enhanced Ca(2+) influx in podocytes, which was prevented by concomitant angiotensin receptor blockade application and TRPC6 knockdown. Studies with a TRPC6 luciferase promoter construct demonstrated a glucose concentration-dependent effect on TRPC6 promoter activity. In vivo, podocyte TRPC6 protein expression was increased in proteinuric streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. These data suggest that glucose can activate a local renin-angiotensin system in the podocyte, leading to increased TRPC6 expression, which enhances TRPC6-mediated Ca(2+) influx. Regulation of TRPC6 expression could be an important factor in podocyte injury due to chronic hyperglycemia and the antiproteinuric effect of angiotensin receptor blockade or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition in DNP. 01 juni 2014

Item does not contain fulltext Proteinuria is a hallmark of many glomerular diseases and an independent risk factor for the progression of renal failure. Proteinuria results from damage to the glomerular filtration barrier (GFB), which plays a critical role in size- and charge-selective filtration. The GFB consists of three layers, which is the fenestrated endothelium that is covered by the glycocalyx, the podocytes and the intervening glomerular basement membrane. Defects in one of the three layers in the GFB can lead to the development of proteinuria. Heparan sulphate (HS) is a negatively charged polysaccharide that is abundantly expressed in all layers of the GFB. HS expression in the GFB is reduced in the majority of patients with proteinuria, which is associated with an increased glomerular expression of the HS-degrading enzyme heparanase. The primary role of HS in the development of proteinuria has been challenged after the establishment of several genetically engineered mouse models with an altered HS expression that did not display development of overt proteinuria. However, in a recent study, we showed that heparanase is essential for the development of proteinuria in diabetic nephropathy, which suggests that loss of HS contributes to the development of proteinuria. Recent studies also further highlight the importance of the glomerular endothelial glycocalyx in charge-selective filtration and the development of proteinuria. This review aims to summarize our current knowledge on the role of in particular HS and heparanase in the development of proteinuria.

Item does not contain fulltext OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of disease progression and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration on the presence of nucleosomes, antinucleosome reactivity, and nucleosome-Ig complexes in the circulation of MRL and control mice. METHODS: Plasma samples from lupus-prone (MRL/lpr and MRL/+) and control (CBA, Swiss, and BALB/c) mice were tested in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays for the presence of nucleosomes, antinucleosome antibodies, and nucleosome-Ig complexes. Nucleosome kinetics, apoptosis induction, and phagocytosis of apoptotic cells were also analyzed in MRL/lpr, MRL/+, and CBA control mice after a single injection of LPS or phosphate buffered saline. RESULTS: Nucleosomes were found in the circulation of MRL/lpr and MRL/+ mice from week 4 onward. Nucleosomes were also detected in young control mice, but with increasing age, the nucleosomes disappeared. Antinucleosome antibodies, nucleosome-Ig complexes, and albuminuria were found only in the MRL/lpr mice. LPS administration led to a significant increase in circulating nucleosomes (3-8-fold) in all strains tested. In only the MRL/lpr mice was this increase followed by a significant decrease in antinucleosome titers and an increase in nucleosome-Ig complexes. The number of apoptotic cells in the thymus after LPS was significantly higher in the MRL/lpr mice than in the MRL/+ and CBA control mice. LPS caused a profound reduction (50-70%) of the phagocytosis of apoptotic cells by peritoneal macrophages, which was comparable for all strains. CONCLUSION: In MRL lupus-prone mice, nucleosomes are persistently present in the circulation, whereas in control mice, nucleosomes are present only at a young age. The formation of antinucleosome antibodies and nucleosome-Ig complexes is a characteristic feature of MRL/lpr mice. LPS administration increases systemic nucleosome release due to an enhancement of apoptosis and a decrease in the clearance of apoptotic cells.

The existence of a sexual problem as the subjective evaluation of sexual function was assessed with a simple questionnaire. Those questioned were patients undergoing dialysis treatment (n = 400) or with a functioning renal transplant (RTx; n = 300) and both men and women in the general Dutch population (n = 591). In the Dutch control population, 8.7% of the men and 14.9% of the women reported a sexual problem, showing a significant gender difference but unrelated to age. In patients, the prevalence of a sexual problem was significantly greater (hemodialysis, men, 62.9%; women, 75.0%; peritoneal dialysis, men, 69.8%; women, 66.7%; renal transplantation, men, 48.3%; women, 44.4%). In RTx recipients, sexual problems were significantly less prevalent than in patients undergoing dialysis (P < 0.001). Only in male patients was an association between prevalence of a sexual problem and age found. The results of the simple questionnaire were sufficiently validated when 102 of 104 patients confirmed their responses in a subsequent structured interview. This study shows that the prevalence of sexual problems in patients undergoing renal replacement therapy is high and clinically relevant.

During apo blebs, containing nuclear components, are formed at the cells' surfaces. When these blebs separate from the dying cell an apo cell body remains. The contents of apo blebs are modified and can be released, especially in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) since impaired clearance of apo material has been observed in this autoimmune condition. Accordingly, autoantibodies present in subjects with SLE bind to apo blebs. Based on AnxA5 binding, and permeability for PI, we show that apo blebs can be categorized as early (AnxA5(+)/PI(- )) or late (AnxA5(+)/PI(+)) apo ones. Both forms of blebs contain apo-induced chromatin modifications and are efficiently phagocytosed by dendritic cell (DC). Uptake by DC of late, but also early apo blebs, stimulate DC to produce IL-6. This bleb-induced effect on DC may be an important step in the initiation of the autoimmune responses in SLE.

The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of various blood pressure (BP) measurement methods on the assessment of differences in BP levels between patients with normoalbuminuric type 1 diabetes and healthy controls. We measured intra-arterial BP (i.a.), sphygmomanometric BP (sphygmo), 24-h ambulatory blood pressure (ABPM, auscultatory, Profilomat) and oscillometric BP (Dinamap) in 51 patients with normoalbuminuric type 1 diabetes (DP) with a mean diabetes duration of 8.4 years and 42 healthy controls (C). Results are expressed as mean +/- SE. There was no significant difference in i.a. BP between DP and C (systolic/diastolic BP and mean arterial pressure (MAP) 116.2 +/- 1.2/61.7 +/- 0.8 (82.8 +/- 0.9) mm Hg in DP vs 115.6 +/- 1.2/63.2 +/- 0.9 (83.4 +/- 1.1) in C). Sphygmo BP was 117.7 +/- 1.3/69.8 +/- 1.0 mm Hg in DP vs 116.5 +/- 1.5/67.8 +/- 1.3 in C (NS). Also, ABPM was not significantly different between both groups. Daytime BP between 10.00-23.00 h was 120.9 +/- 1.2/84.4 +/- 0.9 mm Hg in DP vs 120.4 +/- 1.5/83.7 +/- 1.0 in C (NS). Night-time BP between 01.00-07.00 h was 102.4 +/- 1.2/69.3 +/- 0.9 mm Hg in DP vs 103.4 +/- 1.5/69.1 +/- 1.3 in C (NS). In contrast, systolic Dinamap BP was higher in DP (118.6 +/- 1.3 in DP vs 113.4 +/- 1.4 mm Hg in C, P = 0.01) as was MAP (85.6 +/- 0.7 in DP vs 83.3 +/- 1.0 mm Hg in C, P = 0.05). Diastolic Dinamap BP was not significantly different (66.6 +/- 0.7 in DP vs 65.0 +/- 1.0 mm Hg in C). We conclude that intra-arterial BP was similar in patients with normoalbuminuric type 1 diabetes and healthy controls. Also, when using auscultatory BP devices there were no apparent differences in blood pressure. In contrast, using the oscillometric method (Dinamap), BP especially systolic, was higher in diabetic patients. Measurements with an oscillometric device (Dinamap) might therefore overestimate BP in patients with normoalbuminuric type 1 diabetes, thus confusing conclusions on the relationship between development of hypertension and microalbuminuria in the early phase of diabetes.

In this review the usefulness of the measurement of erythrocyte Na+/Li+ countertransport (Na+/Li+ CT) activity is evaluated. In particular, the association between enhanced erythrocyte Na+/Li+ CT activity and essential hypertension, hyperlipidaemia and diabetic nephropathy is discussed. The conclusion of this review is that elevated erythrocyte Na+/Li+ CT activity is associated with essential hypertension and hyperlipidaemia. A relationship between Na+/Li+ CT activity and diabetic nephropathy is less evident. Despite a significant link of Na+/Li+ CT activity with hypertension and hyperlipidaemia, the diagnostic significance of Na+/Li+ CT activity is low. This is due to the large overlap between the results of control subjects and patients. The factors that contribute to this broad range are discussed in detail.