Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 30, 2026

Isolation, Characterization, And High Throughput Extracellular Flux Analysis of Mouse Primary Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells
Published on: June 20, 2018
Renal tubular dysfunction in children living in the Aral Sea Region
K Kaneko1, M Chiba, M Hashizume
1Department of Pediatrics, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan. kkaneko@med.juntendo.ac.jp
Background:
The Aral Sea region is a natural area seriously polluted by human activities. Recent surveillance revealed the increased prevalence of diverse chronic diseases in children.
Aims:
To investigate the function of renal tubules, which are most at risk of damage as a result of heavy metal intoxication, in children of the Aral Sea region.
Methods:
A group of 205 children living in Kazalinsk, close to the Aral Sea, and a group of 187 children living in Zhanakorgan, far from the Aral Sea, were examined by means of random urine samples. Both urinary N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG; U/mmol Cr) and beta2 microglobulin (BMG; microg/mmol Cr) were calculated for each subject.
Results:
Mean urinary NAG and BMG were both significantly higher in Kazalinsk than in Zhanakorgan (NAG: 0.77 (0.58) and 0.62 (0.37) U/mmol Cr; BMG: 41.8 (54.8) and 22.5 (20.4) microg/mmol Cr, respectively; mean (SD), p < 0.01). The number of children with abnormal values of NAG (>1.5 U/mmol Cr) was significantly more prevalent in Kazalinsk than in Zhanakorgan (7.9% and 2.6%, respectively, p < 0.05).
Conclusion:
Renal tubular function of children around the Aral Sea region is profoundly impaired. This should be taken into account when considering the health problems of this area.
More Related Videos
06:32Development of Human Renal Tubular Epithelial Cell Primary Cultures in Monolayers and Three-Dimensional Conditions
Published on: June 13, 2025
08:46Implementing Patch Clamp and Live Fluorescence Microscopy to Monitor Functional Properties of Freshly Isolated PKD Epithelium
Published on: September 1, 2015
Related Concept Videos
Renal Tubule and Collecting Duct
Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT):
The PCT is the initial segment of the renal tubule, extending from the Bowman's capsule that encloses the glomerulus. Its convoluted structure and microvilli-lined cells increase the surface area for reabsorption. The PCT reabsorbs glucose, amino acids, sodium, and water from the filtrate, ensuring essential...
Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention
Physiology of the Genitourinary System II: Tubular Reabsorption and Secretion
Nephrons
Renal Drug Excretion: Tubular Secretion
Acute Kidney Injury V: Interprofessional Care