The expanding world of RAAS: novel insights in the development of renal disease

PhD ceremony: Ms. J. Kamilic, 14.45 uur, Academiegebouw, Broerstraat 5, Groningen

Title: The expanding world of RAAS: novel insights in the development of renal disease

Promotor(s): prof. H. van Goor, prof. G.J. Navis

Faculty: Medical Sciences

Every year the number of people with chronic renal disease increases. Despite the available treatment options, many patients reach the point where they need dialysis or kidney transplant. These treatments are necessary, but at the same time form a heavy burden for the patient and society. Researcher Jelena Kamilic investigated causes of renal disease. She focused on the renin-angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) which is the most important hormonal system for the regulation of blood pressure, sodium balance and extracellular blood volume. A good regulation of RAAS is central to limiting progress in kidney disease.In an animal model it was shown that genetic polymorphism (WU-L and WU-B) determine different levels of damage following stimulation with angiotensin II. These results are promising, because this type of genetic diversity is also present in humans. Furthermore, it was found that DNA methylation status was associated with the level of tubulointestinal damage.