Shigenori Ikeda

Role of protein kinase C in cisplatin nephrotoxicity

Background: Cisplatin is widely used in cancer treatment. The major disadvantage of this antitumor agent is its nephrotoxicity. The mechanism of cisplatin‐induced nephrotoxicity has not been clarified. Recent evidence suggests protein kinase C (PKC)‐related signal transduction pathways may modulate cisplatin‐induced cytotoxicity.

Determining the Origin of Hematuria by Immunocytochemical Staining of Erythrocytes in Urine for Tamm-Horsfall Protein

PURPOSE We analyzed the feasibility of immunocytochemical staining of urinary erythrocytes for Tamm-Horsfall protein to differentiate renal from nonrenal hematuria. MATERIALS AND METHODS Urine samples collected from 74 patients with hematuria were evaluated. Erythrocytes in urine were inspected morphologically and the same samples were immunocytochemically stained with antibody against human Tamm-Horsfall protein. RESULTS Erythrocytes in urine were clearly stained for Tamm-Horsfall protein in renal hematuria. Tamm-Horsfall protein immunocytochemistry was more consistent with clinical diagnosis than morphology. CONCLUSIONS Immunocytochemical staining of urine erythrocytes for Tamm-Horsfall protein appears to be a reliable tool to differentiate renal from nonrenal hematuria.

Characterization of G Proteins in Obstructed Kidneys

Background: Urinary tract obstruction has a marked effect on renal function. Activation of phospholipases which results in incremental production of vasoactive eicosanoids may contribute to the hemodynamic changes characteristic of an obstructed kidney. G proteins play an important role in transmembrane signal transduction, which controls phospholipase activities and eicosanoid production. The present study was designed to determine the presence of G proteins in obstructed kidneys in rats, and to characterize the differences between unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) and bilateral ureteral obstruction (BUO).