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Isolation of Glomeruli and In Vivo Labeling of Glomerular Cell Surface Proteins
Published on: January 18, 2019
Immunological studies in Balkan Endemic Nephropathy.
M Polenakovic1, R Cukaranovic, V Savic
1Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Skopje, Macedonia. maknefpo@mt.net.mk
Prilozi
|October 9, 2007
Summary
Serum complement and immunoglobulin levels were examined in early-stage Balkan Endemic Nephropathy (BEN) patients. Results showed decreased C3 and IgM, with limited autoantibodies, suggesting humoral immunity may not drive BEN pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Immunology
- Endemic Diseases
Background:
- Balkan Endemic Nephropathy (BEN) is a progressive kidney disease affecting specific regions.
- The role of immune system dysregulation in BEN pathogenesis requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate serum complement and immunoglobulin levels in early-stage BEN patients.
- To identify autoantibodies in BEN patients.
- To re-evaluate kidney biopsy immunohistology in BEN.
Main Methods:
- Serum samples from 45 BEN patients and 55 controls were analyzed for complement and immunoglobulin levels.
- Autoantibodies were detected using indirect fluorescence or radio-immunoassay.
- Kidney biopsies were examined using immunofluorescent microscopy for immune deposits.
Main Results:
- BEN patients exhibited decreased serum C3 (p < 0.001) and IgM (p < 0.05) compared to controls.
- Autoantibodies detected included anti-thyroid (5/45), anti-parietal (7/45), and antinuclear antibodies (2/45).
- Kidney biopsies showed rare, non-specific C3 and IgM deposits in glomeruli and tubules.
Conclusions:
- Humoral immune mechanisms do not appear to be a primary factor in BEN pathogenesis.
- Further research into cell-mediated immunity in early-stage BEN is warranted.
