Lipocalin-2, TWEAK, and other cytokines as urinary biomarkers for lupus nephritis

Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2007 Aug:1109:265-74. doi: 10.1196/annals.1398.032.

Abstract

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). As the course of LN is often unpredictable, it is important to identify reliable, noninvasive methods to repeatedly assess the condition of the kidneys in these patients. Urinary biomarkers are easily obtained and probably are best at reflecting the current renal status, as they specifically represent local inflammatory activity. In this article, we review a number of potential urinary biomarkers, including Lipocalin-2, MCP-1, IP-10, IL-6, and IL-8. Additionally, we provide evidence for the possible utility of the novel cytokine TWEAK as a urinary biomarker for LN.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acute-Phase Proteins / urine*
  • Animals
  • Biomarkers / urine
  • Cytokines / urine*
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Lipocalin-2
  • Lipocalins
  • Lupus Nephritis / pathology
  • Lupus Nephritis / urine*
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins / urine*

Substances

  • Acute-Phase Proteins
  • Biomarkers
  • Cytokines
  • LCN2 protein, human
  • Lipocalin-2
  • Lipocalins
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins