Membranous nephropathy: current understanding of various causes in light of new target antigens

This article covers the literature of the last 2 years devoted to the description of those new antigens and biomarkers including NELL-1 and Semaphorin 3B in primary membranous nephropathy, and exostosins 1 and 2 and NCAM in lupus class V membranous nephropathy, which will be compared with the previously described antigens. These findings will lead to propose a new classification of membranous nephropathy based on serology and tissue antigen identification that could/should substitute for the classical distinction between primary and secondary membranous nephropathy. Summary The discovery of the latest antigens has major implications for the care of patients with membranous nephropathy as they drive the etiologic investigations and provide invaluable markers for treatment monitoring.
Source: Current Opinion in Nephrology and Hypertension - Category: Urology & Nephrology Tags: RENAL IMMUNOLOGY AND PATHOLOGY: Edited by Agnes B. Fogo Source Type: research