Review
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World J Nephrol. Nov 6, 2013; 2(4): 103-110
Published online Nov 6, 2013. doi: 10.5527/wjn.v2.i4.103
Primary focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis and soluble factor urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor
Hernán Trimarchi
Hernán Trimarchi, Servicio de Nefrología, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires 1280, Argentina
Author contributions: Trimarchi H contributed to the conception, design, analysis, and collection of data; to the drafting and revision of the article for its content; and to the final approval of the version to be published.
Correspondence to: Hernán Trimarchi, MD, Servicio de Nefrología, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Perdriel 74, Buenos Aires 1280, Argentina. htrimarchi@hotmail.com
Telephone: +54-11-43096400 Fax: +54-11-43093393
Received: September 8, 2013
Revised: October 10, 2013
Accepted: October 19, 2013
Published online: November 6, 2013
Core Tip

Core tip: Primary acquired focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis is a frequent cause of nephrotic syndrome with no specific treatment. New discoveries in its pathophysiolohy have revealed that a podocyte permeability factor named soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) may be involved in the development of proteinuria and edema formation. This effect is supposed to be achieved by its interaction with podocyte integrins and subsequent cell contraction. Moreover, suPAR also activates water and sodium retention in this disease. Interestingly, plasmin mediates both effects. Amiloride is postulated to interfere with suPAR proteinuric actions.