JoVE - Journal of Visualized Experiments
JoVE Visualize
Contact Us

Exploring the molecular interactions between nephrolithiasis and carotid atherosclerosis: asporin as a potential biomarker

  • 0Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, P.R. China.
Urolithiasis +

|

November 26, 2024

|

November 26, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Asporin (ASPN) is a key gene linking kidney stones (nephrolithiasis) and artery disease (carotid atherosclerosis). Lower ASPN expression in affected tissues suggests shared mechanisms involving immune response and bone formation.

Area Of Science

  • Biomedical research
  • Molecular biology
  • Genetics

Background

  • Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones) and carotid atherosclerosis (CAS) share potential links.
  • Randall's plaque (RP) is implicated as a precursor in kidney stone formation.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To investigate shared genes and molecular mechanisms between RP and CAS.
  • To identify a key molecular player connecting these two conditions.

Main Methods

  • Utilized Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) microarray data for RP and CAS.
  • Employed weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and differential gene expression (DEG) analysis.
  • Assessed diagnostic potential using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and validated findings with immunohistochemistry (IHC) and qRT-PCR.

Main Results

  • Asporin (ASPN) was identified as a key shared gene between RP and CAS.
  • ASPN expression was significantly lower in RP and CAS tissues compared to normal tissues.
  • ASPN showed significant correlations with immune cell infiltration in both conditions.

Conclusions

  • ASPN may serve as a diagnostic marker for both RP and CAS.
  • ASPN elucidates shared pathogenic pathways, including immune response and osteoblast differentiation, between nephrolithiasis and carotid atherosclerosis.

Keywords:

Related Concept Videos

Blood Studies for Cardiovascular System II: CRP, Hcy, and Cardiac Natriuretic Peptide Markers 01:19

59

Cardiac biomarkers are critical in diagnosing, prognosing, and managing cardiovascular diseases. Routine measurement of specific biomarkers such as B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), C-reactive protein (CRP), and homocysteine (Hcy) is common practice in clinical settings to evaluate heart function and predict cardiovascular events.
These markers indicate stress or strain on the heart muscle:
Natriuretic Peptides (BNP)
Cardiac myocytes produce these hormones in response to ventricular stretching...

Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System VI: Calcium -Scoring CT 01:25

3

Calcium-Scoring CT ScanA calcium-scoring CT scan, also known as coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan, detects calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. This test assesses the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD), which can lead to cardiovascular events such as angina, heart failure, and sudden cardiac arrest.A calcium-scoring CT scan is generally recommended for individuals at intermediate risk of CAD without symptoms. It includes:Men aged 40-75 and women aged 50-75: Especially those with a...

Antihypertensive Drugs: Direct Renin Inhibitors 01:25

493

The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is an intricate physiological pathway involving numerous enzymes and hormones, including renin, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), angiotensin I and II, and aldosterone. Imbalances within this system increase the production of angiotensin II and aldosterone. Increased angiotensin II levels promote vasoconstriction and blood pressure elevation. Concurrently, higher aldosterone levels stimulate sodium and water reabsorption in the kidneys,...