Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major health problem that affects millions of people around the world.
It happens when the kidneys slowly stop working over time, leading to serious health issues and, in some cases, the need for dialysis. But even though CKD is common, scientists haven’t fully understood what causes the continuous damage inside the kidneys—until now.
A team of researchers from Boston University’s Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine has made a new discovery that could change how we treat CKD. They found that a gene called TMIGD1 plays a key role in protecting the kidneys.
This gene helps keep kidney cells healthy and working properly. Dr. Vipul Chitalia, one of the study’s lead researchers, explained that the unique part of their discovery is understanding how this gene helps prevent kidney failure.
Using lab experiments and cell models, the researchers showed that when the TMIGD1 gene stops working or is turned off, the kidneys become more vulnerable to damage.
They also found that harmful toxins, which often build up in people with kidney problems, make things worse by interfering with the TMIGD1 gene’s function. This means that both gene activity and toxin exposure play a big part in the health of the kidneys.
The discovery is important because it offers new ways to treat or even prevent chronic kidney disease. Dr. Wenqing Yin, another lead author of the study, said that the TMIGD1 gene could be used in the future as both a treatment target and a screening tool.
This means doctors might be able to spot kidney damage earlier by checking this gene and even create treatments that protect or boost its activity.
This could be a game-changer for people at risk of developing kidney failure. If scientists can find ways to support this gene, they might be able to stop CKD from getting worse or even prevent it from starting in the first place. This could reduce the number of people who end up needing dialysis, which is a costly and life-changing treatment.
Looking ahead, the research team is hopeful that their work will lead to new medicines or therapies that focus on the TMIGD1 gene. They also hope to improve early screening methods so that kidney problems can be caught sooner and treated more effectively.
This breakthrough discovery gives hope to millions of people and opens up a whole new path for understanding and treating chronic kidney disease.
If you’re concerned about kidney health, other studies have shown that avoiding certain pesticides, managing diabetes carefully, and eating vegetables that support kidney function can also help reduce the risk of kidney damage.
If you care about kidney health, please read studies about Scientists find important cause of kidney disease and findings of Cruciferous vegetables may reverse kidney damage in diabetics.
For more about kidney health, please read studies about High blood pressure drugs may affect kidney health and findings of Effective home remedies for kidney infections.
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