Urinary Tract Infections: Renal Intercalated Cells Protect against Pathogens
Forough Chelangarimiyandoab1, Priyanka Mungara, Manav Batta
1Department of Physiology and Membrane Protein Disease Research Group, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, College of Health Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Abstract:
Urinary tract infections affect more than 1 in 2 women during their lifetime. Among these, more than 10% of patients carry antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, highlighting the urgent need to identify alternative treatments. While innate defense mechanisms are well-characterized in the lower urinary tract, it is becoming evident that the collecting duct (CD), the first renal segment encountered by invading uropathogenic bacteria, also contributes to bacterial clearance. However, the role of this segment is beginning to be understood. This review summarizes the current knowledge on CD intercalated cells in urinary tract bacterial clearance. Understanding the innate protective role of the uroepithelium and of the CD offers new opportunities for alternative therapeutic strategies.
Related Concept Videos
Urinary Tract Infection II: Pathophysiology
Physiology of the Genitourinary System III: Urine Concentration and Dilution
Acute Pyelonephritis I: Introduction
Physiology of the Genitourinary System II: Tubular Reabsorption and Secretion
Defense Mechanism Against Infection
In addition, many body organ systems have unique defenses against infection. The skin is an intact, multilayered surface preventing invasion by microorganisms unless impaired. Mucous membranes lining the mouth, nose, and eyelids are barriers...
Renal Regulation of Acid-Base Balance
In the kidneys, cells within the proximal convoluted tubules (PCT) and the collecting ducts secrete hydrogen ions (H+) into the tubular fluid. Specifically, in the PCT, Na+/H+ antiporters secrete H+ while reabsorbing Na+.
However, the intercalated cells in...


