kidney failure Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Brazilian Material Scientist Develops a Novel Method for Early Detection of Kidney Disease

AHA Publisher — Mon, 07 Feb 2022 08:00:11 +0000

Technische Universitaet Dresden via News-Medical – Humboldt Research Fellow Dr. Maria Rita Ortega Vega from the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil will be a guest at the Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry at TU Dresden. Here, she will work together with her host Prof. Stefan Kaskel on the development of novel electrochemical sensors for the salivary detection of kidney diseases. The kidneys are vital organs that clean the blood and influence many bodily functions. Many kidney diseases initially show neither pain nor symptoms. Often, it is only as a result of a random examination that proteins or only microscopically visible traces of blood in the urine indicate damage to the kidney. The Brazilian material scientist Dr. Maria Rita Ortega Vega would like to develop a completely new method for the early detection of kidney disease at the Technische Universität Dresden. To this end, she is collaborating with host Prof. Stefan Kaskel and his team as part of a Humboldt research stay. Kaskel is a professor of inorganic chemistry and is particularly involved in research into porous materials, e.g. for the energy transition or for environmental technologies. However, Dr. Ortega Vega wants to use these materials in her project “Nanostructured transition metal-based electrochemical sensor for salivary urea detection for kidney failure diagnostics” to detect and quantify urea in saliva using electrochemical techniques. “The presence and amount of urea in saliva can be an indicator of kidney problems. With such a sensor, patients and doctors can get reliable results quickly and without blood testing. For patients who are already in the chronic stage of the disease, this technology can help evaluate the performance of the dialysis process. We expect to jointly develop a specific and sensitive material for this application.” (Maria Rita Ortega Vega, Humboldt Research Fellow, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil) “I am delighted that we have been able to attract Ms. Ortega, a talented young scientist who is an excellent fit for our team, to TU Dresden. Her innovative research into new topics in biosensorics will certainly benefit decisively from the excellent research environment in Dresden,” states Prof. Kaskel. As a Henriette Heart Scout of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, he has the opportunity to identify three excellent and highly sought-after young scientists from abroad, to propose them for a Humboldt Research Fellowship and to bring them to the TU Dresden. Maria Rita Ortega Vega is the first fellow Kaskel has been able to recruit for his team in this way. “I liked the level of work of the team: there are many promising developments here with great opportunities for technology transfer and applicability. This is very important to me: doing science that can have an impact on society. I consider science as a democratic project, so studying systems and materials that are scalable to make them reach people by means of different applications and that can make life easier, “materializing” knowledge, is a huge motivation. I also liked the infrastructure, which is very different from the one in Brazil. TUD has different technologies and equipment that I am not used to and I’m looking forward to learning about them,” Maria Rita says about her motivation to accept Stefan Kaskel’s invitation to Dresden. To read the original article click here.

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Lower Your Blood Pressure with 4 SIMPLE Dietary Interventions

AHA Publisher — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 08:00:15 +0000

Wendy Miller via NaturalHealth365 – With one in three Americans living with high blood pressure, the condition can hardly be ignored. Ask any primary care physicians about the percentage of patients in their practice with the diagnosis of hypertension. They will tell you that the vast majority of their patient population has this pervasive and devastating health condition. As one of the most significant risk factors for heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, this largely preventable diet- and lifestyle-driven condition deserves attention. Most people are unaware that drug therapy is not the only way to lower blood pressure. In fact, scientific evidencesuggests multiple natural ways to keep your blood pressure in check and within the normal range. Say No to “Trans” Fat and Hydrogenated Fats One of the first steps to take towards normalizing your blood pressure is to remove “trans” and hydrogenated fats from your diet. These fats are known to increase your risk of cholesterol and plaque build-up in your arteries. They are found in most processed foods like lunch meats, margarine, and foods made with hydrogenated vegetable shortening. Even partially hydrogenated oils are harmful and should be avoided as much as possible. Read food labels and do not buy any foods that contain them. Better yet, skip processed foods altogether and purchase plenty of whole, plant foods instead. Lastly, let’s not forget the toxicity associated with conventionally produced animal-based foods. Simply put, factory farming techniques heavily use synthetic hormones and antibiotics – both of which are toxic to your blood circulation. This toxicity tends to cause chronic inflammation and an increased risk of hypertension. Why You Should Minimize the Use of Wheat and Cornstarch This may seem odd to many people who are used to hearing that whole grains are good for them. But, the fact is, more and more Americans are showing signs of wheat sensitivities. This can result in inflammation of the intestinal tract and a diagnosis of celiac disease. Celiac disease can be fatal if left untreated and gets out of control. It can also disrupt how your body absorbs nutrients. This, in turn, can lead to weight gain, obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Even if it is an indirect manner, wheat and cornstarch are proven to add to the problem. Don’t Forget: Oxidized Oils Have to Go Oils that oxidize or go rancid should also be eliminated. These oils can oxidize rather quickly when exposed to heat and can cause cholesterol particles to change. Many of these oils are used to deep fry foods, which can also lead to health problems. Corn and safflower oils are the most commonly used oils. Unfortunately, they also oxidize at a much faster rate. Tip: To tap into the nutritional benefits of high-quality oils, such as flaxseed oil, be sure to consume them unheated. Add MORE Healthy, Blood Pressure-Friendly Foods Into Your Diet If you want to lower your blood pressure, you can start by changing some of the foods you consume. Replace wheat with other whole grains. Instead of corn oil and other trans fats, it includes healthy oils like olive or sesame oils. They are better for your health and add a touch of flavor to your food. Finally, add organic fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet. Fresh fruits and vegetables – full of healthy fiber – will help move cholesterol and other fatty deposits out of the body, lowering your blood pressure and improving your circulation. Ultimately, high blood pressure is a result of many poor lifestyle habits and their effects on the body. Adjusting your diet and eliminating the foods that have been proven to cause many of our most severe health conditions is the best plan of action for lowering your high blood pressure and improving circulation. In addition, adding the right foods will strengthen your heart and improve overall heart function. Editor’s note: To learn more about how to IMPROVE your heart (and lung) function … register now – at no cost to you – for the Cardiovascular Docu-Class. Sources for this article include: LifeExtension.com MayoClinic.org Healthline.com To read the original article click here.

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New Study Links Common Pesticide to Chronic Kidney Disease

AHA Publisher — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 08:00:48 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – According to new statistics released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 37 million Americans – a startling 15 percent of adults across the nation – are now estimated to have chronic kidney disease (CKD). Not only that, but an astounding 90 percent of people with CKD do not even suspect they have it! And, even when severe kidney disease is involved, only 3 out of 5 individuals with the condition are aware of it. Against the backdrop of these disturbing figures, a just-published study reveals that malathion – the most popular organophosphate insecticide in the United States – substantially raises the risk of CKD in the American population. Clearly, this calls for closer examination of the link between this toxic pesticide and CKD. Let’s take a look at the research. WARNING: Chronic Kidney Disease Has Potentially Deadly Consequences Chronic kidney disease, also known as chronic kidney failure, involves damage to the kidneys and loss of kidney function. This serious condition jeopardizes the kidneys’ ability to filter waste products from the blood and excrete them through urine – causing fluid, electrolytes, and toxins to build up in the body. The early stages of kidney disease are often symptomless, causing the condition to go unnoticed. More advanced kidney disease may be indicated by fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, urination that becomes less or more frequent, confusion, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Keep in mind, CKD can lead to severe – and even life-threatening – complications, including pulmonary edema, heart disease, high levels of potassium in the blood, seizures, and irreversible kidney damage. The condition can progress to end-stage kidney failure, which – unless addressed by dialysis or a kidney transplant – is fatal. Malathion Exposure Is Linked to a 25 Percent Increase in Chronic Kidney Disease, Study Suggests In the study, which was published October 14 in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, researchers examined the effects of pesticides on kidney health in the US population. The research involved over 41,000 participants and was conducted using data from the USA National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Animal studies have previously shown that exposure to malathion increases markers of kidney injury, such as levels of serum creatinine and urea. And human studies, as well, have linked malathion to kidney damage. Also driving the research was the growing incidence of unexplained chronic kidney disease in tropical countries. While hypertension, diabetes, and aging are primary factors for chronic kidney disease, international researchers had noticed the growth of cases of CKD with no known cause, particularly in agricultural workers in poorer sections of India and Sri Lanka. The scientists suspected that environmental toxins such as pesticides might be playing a role – and wanted to examine the possible effects of pesticides on kidney health in the United States. And they found that malathion exposure was associated with a significant 25 percent increase in chronic kidney disease in the United States! Study co-author Nicholas Osborne, PhD, an associate professor at the Queensland University School of Public Health, reported that the study provided evidence of altered kidney function in people exposed to malathion. “Malathion,” Dr. Osborne stated, “increases the risk of low kidney function in the general US population.” Wait, There Is More! Malathion Depletes Supplies of the Body’s Most Potent Disease-Fighting Enzyme Categorized as a “probable carcinogen” by the World Health Organization, malathion has been linked in animal studies to birth defects and various cancers. It has also been shown to be an endocrine disruptor. Scientists believe that malathion and other organophosphate pesticides cause their damage by reducing the metabolism of glutathione, the body’s most important natural antioxidant. This in turn leads to increased oxidative stress and disease. Malathion is licensed for agricultural and domestic use – as well as for mosquito control in recreational areas – and turns up in a wide variety of applications. It may be used on fruits, vegetables, shrubs, and lawns, as well as in household pesticides for ant control. It can also be found in products used to treat fleas and ticks on pets – and even makes an appearance in some treatments for head lice on humans. Short-term effects of high exposure to malathion include headaches, nausea, dizziness, cramps, diarrhea, excessive sweating, blurred vision, and accelerated heart rate. Minimize Exposure to Malathion and Other Environmental Toxins While the Environmental Protection Agency insists that the small amounts of malathion used for mosquito control make effects on humans “unlikely,” Dr. Osborne warned that chronic exposure to pesticides – even in very small doses – can lead to negative health outcomes. Natural health experts note that people can be exposed to small – but damaging – amounts by eating conventional chemical-dependent foods, inhaling the spray through mosquito spray programs, and being exposed to “drift” from local landscape applications. To minimize exposure, experts advise remaining inside or avoiding the area for at least 30 minutes post-spray. Close windows and doors, turn off window air conditioners, and close vents during spraying – and for at least 10 minutes after. Minimize contact with surfaces in recently-sprayed areas, and – if these areas are contacted – wash skin well. Rinse both homegrown and store-bought fruits and vegetables well before cooking or eating. Of course, organic produce contains far lower amounts of synthetic pesticides. So, whenever possible, spend your food money wisely. And, don’t forget to protect your fine furry friends. Pet food and water dishes should be brought inside, and ornamental fishponds should be covered, if you notice any spraying of toxic chemicals. Other natural steps you can take to support kidney health include avoiding the overuse of NSAID medications, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, bypassing sodium-laden processed foods, and managing medical conditions that can harm kidneys. The fact that chronic kidney disease is common in American adults is disturbing, especially when you consider the lack of awareness. But: the fact that malathion appears to contribute to the growing global incidence of the disease is even worse. Be proactive and protect your health. It’s worth it! Editor’s note: Click here to learn more about kidney health inside the Fatty Liver Docu-Class. It’s available now. Sources for this article include: ScienceDaily.com MayoClinic.org Health.NY.gov BeyondPesticides.com To read the original article click here.

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Cordyceps Kill Cancer Cells and Boost Immunity, Studies Suggest

AHA Publisher — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 07:00:30 +0000

Karen Sanders via NaturalHealth365 – In a development that sounds almost as far-fetched as a plot twist penned by a Hollywood screenwriter, some medical researchers are hopeful that a parasitic fungus (cordyceps) found on Tibetan caterpillars may hold the key to ending the cancer epidemic. Today, we’ll take a closer look at how an ancient remedy can help you to reduce the risk of cancer cell growth by improving immune system function. Cordyceps Offer Many Powerful Health Benefits Cordyceps, scientifically known as Cordyceps sinensis, is one of the most important and revered herbal treatments in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) – where it is known as semitake, aweto, yartsu gunbu, and Dong Chong Xia. The first recorded use of cordyceps took place in the 15th century; it was likely used for many centuries before that. Usually prescribed to restore energy, boost the immune system, promote longevity, and improve quality of life, cordyceps has also been used in TCM to treat serious ailments, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and kidney failure. Cordyceps is produced by a strange pairing between insect and fungus. The substance grows from the mummified remains of insect larvae found on the heads of a subterranean caterpillar that lives at high altitudes in the Qinghai-Tibetan plateau. Unfortunately, most commercial varieties have been artificially cultivated due to the expense and difficulty of harvesting natural cordyceps. Major Hospital Recognize the Anti-Cancer Properties of Cordyceps According to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), cordyceps have antitumor, radioprotective, and antidiabetic effects. In addition, MSKCC cites a study in which cordyceps made the cancer medication cisplatin more toxic to lung cancer cells and confirms that cordyceps can also help infection-fighting lymphocytes live longer, increase levels of T helper cells, reduce tumor cell proliferation, and boost the activity of natural killer cells. And, finally, the medical center reports that some studies have shown that cordyceps have caused cancer symptoms to improve, in addition to helping patients better tolerate the rigors of chemotherapy. What Exactly Is in Cordyceps? Despite its bizarre provenance, cordyceps is not only non-toxic but safe and even nutritious to consume. According to the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, the fungus contains essential amino acids, several essential B-complex vitamins, and the vitamins E and K. Beneficial fatty acids – including oleic acid, the same healthful monounsaturated fatty acid found in olives – are also present. However, cordyceps’ most significant feature may be its nucleosides. Researchers believe that nucleosides, key signaling molecules in the body, help fight cancer; nucleoside analogs are medically used as anticancer and antiviral agents. In addition, cordyceps contains many nucleosides, including guanidine and guanosine; the most potent – and most studied – of these seems to be 3-deoxyadenosine, which researchers have dubbed cordycepin. Is There Any Proof That Cordyceps Kill Cancer Cells? Although human studies are limited, animal and test-tube research have shown time and time again that cordyceps has the capacity to destroy cancer cells, help normalize low white blood cell count occurring as a result of chemotherapy, and even make certain medications more toxic to cancer cells. In a study published in 2008 in Experimental Biology and Medicine, researchers explored the effects of cordyceps on mice that had low counts of infection-fighting white blood cells in their bone marrow as a result of being given the chemotherapy drug Taxol. Mice given cordyceps daily – for three weeks – had their white blood cell counts restored to normal ranges; the white blood cell counts in the non-cordyceps group were dramatically lower, sometimes by as much as 50 percent. Concluding that cordyceps enhance recovery from clinically-induced leucopenia, the team remarked that the substance positively affects osteoblast differentiation – an essential factor in new bone formation – by acting on proteins and core binding factors that are needed to produce new bone cells. In a cell study published in Cancer Chemotherapy and Pharmacology in 2007, cordycepin extracted from cordyceps had an apoptotic effect on human oral cancer cells – causing them to self-destruct. Researchers used flow cytometry and viability assays to show that the survival of cancer cells significantly decreased with the administration of cordyceps and noted that the effects became more dramatic as the dose and duration of cordyceps increased. Scientists Continue to Identify and Isolate New Beneficial Constituents In yet another test-tube study published in 2009 in Cell Proliferation, scientists isolated two new anticancer constituents from cordyceps and named them gliocladicillins A and B. These inhibited the growth of tumor cells, causing cell self-destruction through extrinsic and intrinsic pathways. Calling the gliocladicillins “effective antitumor agents,” the team called for more study to explore the pair’s use in treating cancer in humans. What Do Natural Healthcare Practitioners Recommend? Cordyceps is currently marketed as a health food supplement and nutraceutical and can be found in health food stores or online. Most practitioners recommend taking between 2 to 3 grams a day with food. Cordyceps is generally considered safe. Of course, you should consult your doctor before taking it, especially if you take blood thinners or medication for diabetes. Don’t use cordyceps to treat cancer unless under the guidance of a well-trained physician. And, of course, make sure you obtain cordyceps from a reputable supplier – as some samples are contaminated with lead. Although a parasitic fungus may seem an unlikely ally in the road to recovering from a cancer diagnosis, cordyceps could turn out to be a very important – and even a lifesaving player. Once again, Mother Nature has supplied a beneficial substance well worth attention and further study. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov MSKCC.org NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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9 Supplements for Optimal Blood Pressure Management

AHA Publisher — Sun, 16 Aug 2020 07:00:32 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Half of all Americans over 60 suffer from high blood pressure (hypertension), a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke and kidney failure. In fact, research shows that even small increases in blood pressure increase the danger, with every 20/10 mmHg rise over optimal levels (115/75 mmHg) causing heart disease risk to double! And, while conventionally-trained physicians tend to prescribe drugs to reduce blood pressure, these medications can produce toxic side effects. Fortunately, a variety of vitamins and nutrients can significantly reduce blood pressure. To discover the top 9 natural supplements for blood pressure control, keep reading. Vitamin D: The “Sunshine Vitamin” Shines in its Ability to Help You to Stay Healthy Vitamin D supplementation has been shown in studies to reduce blood pressure in people with hypertension. Experts say that this important fat-soluble nutrient helps to suppress a blood pressure hormone known as renin. Unsurprisingly, vitamin D deficiency (blood levels under 20 ng/mL of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3) raises the risk of high blood pressure. To avoid deficiency, natural health experts recommend getting at least 20 minutes of direct sunlight two or three times a week. You can also boost dietary levels with cold water (wild caught) salmon, organic mushrooms or pasture-raised eggs. However, to achieve “optimal levels,” your integrative healthcare provider may recommend supplementation. Although individual needs can vary depending on gender, body mass, age, state of health and climate, some natural health experts maintain that most people need about 5,000 – 8,000 IU per day, to correct deficiencies in vitamin D. The “Mighty Mineral” Magnesium: A Great Way to Improve Your Cardiovascular Health Magnesium, an essential mineral, is vital for regulating heart rhythm and blood pressure – and is particularly beneficial for people with cardiovascular disease. In one study involving patients with advanced heart disease, magnesium supplementation caused a 9 mmHg drop in systolic blood pressure. The systolic, or top measurement, records the pressure during heartbeats, while the diastolic reveals blood pressure between beats. For people who are low in magnesium in the first place, supplementation can have even more dramatic effects on blood pressure. In one study of low-magnesium patients, supplementation with 450 mg of elemental magnesium a day dropped systolic levels a whopping 20.4 mmHg. Can Fish Oil Help to Relax the Arteries? Extensive studies have shown that fish oil – which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA – promotes the relaxation of arteries while reducing arterial inflammation. The result? This natural supplement can cause modest (but still meaningful) reductions in blood pressure. To lower blood pressure, natural healers typically advise between 1,000 and 2,000 mg of fish oil a day. Just be sure to use a quality source of fish oil to avoid toxicity concerns. CoQ10 Is Widely Known as a “Winner” When it Comes to Maintaining a Healthy Cardiovascular System A vitamin-like nutrient that is essential for heart health, coenzyme Q10 is a potent antioxidant that can promote healthy blood pressure. Extensive research has shown that doses between 30 mg and 360 mg a day of CoQ10 can drop the systolic reading by as much as 16.6 mmHg. And, not only can CoQ10 lower blood pressure, but it can help reverse resultant damage by decreasing abnormal thickening of the heart muscle. By the way, if you take a statin drug to lower cholesterol, natural health experts strongly advise supplementing with C0Q10. Typical dosages range from 200 to 300 mg a day. Beat High Blood Pressure with Beet Juice At first glance, this brilliantly colored scarlet liquid might resemble the sort of sugary, artificial, chemical-laden drink that those with high blood pressure should avoid. But there is nothing artificial about beet juice, especially as it relates to its ability to decrease blood pressure. Beets are rich in inorganic nitrate, as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds called betalains. Both may help you get high blood pressure under control. In an important 2015 study, researchers found that a cup of beet juice a day for four weeks lowered blood pressure in people with hypertension, causing improvement within hours of consumption. Get Extra Helps from Anthocyanins Anthocyanins, flavonoids found in intensely colored fruits such as blueberries and blackberries, inhibit production of blood pressure-raising ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) while increasing production of beneficial nitric oxide. One study found that two servings of anthocyanin-rich berries a day caused significant drops in systolic blood pressure – along with a rise in beneficial HDL cholesterol. As a side note: if fresh berries are inconvenient or pricey, no worries. Powdered berry extracts can give you similar health benefits. Mellow Out With Melatonin: A Natural Sleep Aid Promotes Better Blood Pressure Control at Night Melatonin, the “sleep hormone,” is often taken to promote restful, natural slumber. It can also do double duty by lowering harmful blood pressure “spikes” that can occur during sleep. In a study published in the American Journal of Hypertension, the team found that nocturnal hypertension has been associated with increased risk for cardiovascular events. In fact, several studies have shown that 2 mg of melatonin, taken before bedtime, can significantly lower blood pressure during sleep. Don’t Forget the Value of Cinnamon To access this blood pressure-lowering natural nutrient, you need look no farther than your spice rack. Cinnamon is high in cinnamaldehyde, an antioxidant compound that is being researched for its ability to decrease both blood pressure and blood sugar. In a 2013 systematic review published in Nutrition, the authors referenced the “notable” blood pressure-lowering effect of cinnamon on diabetic and prediabetic patients. By the way, the amounts used in studies have ranged from a fraction of a teaspoon to two teaspoons a day. Cinnamon is generally regarded as safe when taken in amounts typically added to food, so go ahead and sprinkle this tasty spice over organic oatmeal or use it to add a little “zip” to your favorite smoothie. Discover the Healing Power of Eating Garlic Garlic contains an active constituent called allicin, which increases the body’s production of beneficial nitric oxide -in turn enhancing dilation of blood vessels. When it comes to lowering blood pressure, garlic is truly a heavy hitter. In a meta-review published in 2016 in Journal of Nutrition, the authors examined 50 years of controlled trials involving almost a thousand participants and concluded that garlic lowered both systolic and diastolic blood pressure by an average of 8.7 and 6.1 mmHg respectively. As an added “bonus:” garlic can help to reduce total and LDL cholesterol. Just remember: If you would like to try managing your blood pressure with any of the above supplements, check with your integrative doctor first. Manage Blood Pressure with Simple Lifestyle Changes Of course, one can’t overlook the potential of proper nutrition and exercise to reduce blood pressure. Natural health experts suggest doing away with highly-processed foods, refined sugars and sugary drinks from your diet, and replacing unhealthy trans and hydrogenated fats with beneficial (non-toxic) fats, like avocados. Managing blood pressure is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health. These natural supplements can be powerful allies. Sources for this article include: LifeExtension.com, NIH.gov, NIH.gov, MedicalNewsToday.com To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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Fine Particle Air Pollution Linked with Poor Kidney Health

AHA Publisher — Tue, 03 Mar 2020 08:00:05 +0000

American Society of Nephrology (ASN) via Newswise – It’s known that breathing in air pollution can have detrimental health effects beyond the lungs, but few studies have shown how it impacts the kidneys, which act as filters for the blood. Newswise — Washington, DC (February 27, 2020) — People living in areas with higher levels of air pollution faced higher risks of developing kidney disease in a recent study. The findings appear in an upcoming issue of CJASN. It’s known that breathing in air pollution can have detrimental health effects beyond the lungs, but few studies have shown how it impacts the kidneys, which act as filters for the blood. To investigate, Matthew F. Blum, MD (Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine) and his colleagues examined information on 10,997 adults across 4 sites in the United States who were followed from 1996-1998 through 2016. The researchers estimated the monthly average levels of tiny particles of air pollution—called fine particulate matter—based on participants’ home addresses. Fine particulate matter comes from a variety of sources including fossil fuel combustion, industrial processes, and natural sources. The team found that exposure to higher amounts of fine particulate matter was associated with a higher degree of albuminuria—a marker of kidney dysfunction—at the start of the study as well as a higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease over time. “As rates of chronic kidney disease rise worldwide, it is important to understand whether and how exposure to air pollution plays a role,” said Dr. Blum. The authors noted that their findings may be especially important for parts of the world with higher air pollution, such as China and India, where fine particulate matter levels are 5 to 10 times higher than in the United States. Future studies should examine whether efforts to improve air quality yield health benefits, including reducing rates of chronic kidney disease. This article has been modified. To read the original article click here.

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Could New Israeli Technique Spell the End of Dialysis?

AHA Publisher — Sun, 23 Feb 2020 08:00:06 +0000

Abigail Klein Leichman via Israel21c – Study shows it is possible to rejuvenate kidneys and improve their function by using the patient’s own stem cells. A treatment using a patient’s own stem cells could rejuvenate ailing kidneys without dialysis, transplantation or immune rejection. That is the conclusion of a groundbreaking Israeli study recently published in Cell Reports by researchers from Sheba Medical Center and Bar-Ilan University in Israel. “This treatment is aimed at the millions of patients who have yet to require dialysis treatment, and focuses on improving and stabilizing their renal function in order to avoid the need for dialysis,” said lead author Dr. Benjamin Dekel, chief of pediatric nephrology and the Pediatric Stem Cell Research Institute in the Edmond and Lily Safra Children’s Hospital at Sheba. The newly developed technology, so far tested on mice, generated new tissue to replace damaged kidney tissue. The mice’s kidney function improved as a result. The researchers wrote that chronic kidney disease is reaching epidemic proportions in the Western world. In the United States alone, chronic kidney disease affects more than 45 million individuals. “Harvesting tissue from failing kidneys and autotransplantation of tissue progenitors could theoretically delay the need for dialysis,” they concluded. Further studies will be done in patients with kidney failure by KidneyCure Bio, a Tel Aviv company that commercialized the technology and supported the study. Dekel is KidneyCure Bio’s chief scientific and medical adviser. Other grants for the study came from Sheba Medical Center, the Israel Science Foundation, the Israel Ministry of Health and the European Union Seventh Framework Programme. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Israel21c click here.

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