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Abstract: SA-PO839

Association of Neuroblastoma Suppressor of Tumorigenicity 1 (NBL1) with Interstitial Fibrosis Severity and Kidney Function Decline in IgA Nephropathy

Session Information

Category: Glomerular Diseases

  • 1401 Glomerular Diseases: From Inflammation to Fibrosis

Authors

  • Kobayashi, Hiroki, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
  • Satake, Eiichiro, Joslin Diabetes Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
  • Abe, Masanori, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
Background

We recently showed that the presence of neuroblastoma suppressor of tumorigenicity 1 (NBL1) in circulation is closely linked to the progression of kidney disease and histological abnormalities in individuals with diabetic kidney disease. This research aimed to investigate the potential association between serum NBL1 levels and kidney function, as well as renal histological leisons, in patients with IgA nephropathy (IgAN).

Methods

In this study, we assessed the NBL1 levels in 109 individuals with IgAN by using serum samples collected immediately before renal biopsy. We also evaluated the significance of serum NBL1 in relation to kidney function and renal histological findings based on the Oxford Classification (MEST score). Moreover, we examined the correlation between serum NBL1 and the long-term decline in kidney function among IgAN patients who had follow-up data on their estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (n=76).

Results

In early-stage IgAN patients, serum NBL1 levels were found to be higher compared to healthy individuals (n=93). Logistic regression analysis revealed a significant and independent association between serum NBL1 levels and tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis. Through immunohistochemical staining, NBL1 was highly expressed in the tubulointerstitium during the early stages of IgAN. Additionally, a significant correlation between serum NBL1 levels and the eGFR slope was identified on Spearman's rank correlation.

Conclusion

The serum NBL1 level was significantly associated with the severity of renal interstitial fibrosis and future kidney disease progression in patients with IgAN. Thus, circulating NBL1 may serve as a good biomarker for evaluating renal interstitial fibrosis and the risk of kidney disease progression.

Funding

  • Private Foundation Support