Prognostic, diagnostic and therapeutic significance in detecting and using TIN-antigen (Tubulo-Interstitial nephritis antigen) and its segments

摘要

TIN antigen (the acronym is derived from Tubulo-Interstitial Nephritis) is a novel macromolecular component of basement membranes. It is expressed almost exclusively in the basement membrane of the proximal tubule of the kidney. This specific expression pattern led to the hypothesis that it can be used as a marker in diseases that affect the renal parenchyma in this area. More specifically, in cases of diabetic nephropathy and acute tubular necrosis it can provide information contributing to early prognosis and diagnosis and to the follow up of the disease. Preliminary results are presented that support the hypothesis that the levels of TIN-ag in urine samples of patients with acute tubular necrosis or diabetes may be different compared to samples from healthy individuals.