Enzymes
Product List
UMOD Canine
Uromodulin Canine
UMOD Feline
Uromodulin Feline
UMOD Human
Uromodulin Human
UMOD Porcine
Uromodulin Porcine
Introduction
Key Biological Properties: Uromodulin is a kidney-specific glycoprotein produced by the epithelial cells lining the thick ascending limb (TAL) and early distal convoluted tubule (DCT) of the nephron . It is secreted bidirectionally into the urine and interstitial space/circulation .
Expression Patterns and Tissue Distribution: Uromodulin is predominantly expressed in the kidney, specifically in the TAL and DCT . It is also found in the renal medulla, kidney tubule, and metanephric glomerulus .
Primary Biological Functions: Uromodulin plays a crucial role in maintaining renal homeostasis, particularly in regulating sodium and water balance . It is involved in the modulation of renal sodium handling through the regulation of tubular sodium transporters .
Role in Immune Responses and Pathogen Recognition: Uromodulin acts as a defense mechanism against urinary tract infections by inhibiting the adhesion of uropathogenic bacteria to the urinary tract . It also plays a role in immune regulation by modulating the activity of immune cells .
Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: Uromodulin interacts with various molecules and cells, including sodium-potassium-chloride cotransporter type 2 (NKCC2) and the thiazide-sensitive sodium-chloride cotransporter (NCC) . These interactions are crucial for its role in sodium homeostasis .
Binding Partners and Downstream Signaling Cascades: Uromodulin binds to calcium ions and immunoglobulin G (IgG), which are essential for its structural and functional integrity . It also influences downstream signaling cascades involved in renal ion transport and immune responses .
Regulatory Mechanisms Controlling Expression and Activity: The expression of uromodulin is regulated at the transcriptional level by various factors, including dietary sodium intake and genetic variants . Post-translational modifications, such as glycosylation, are crucial for its proper folding and function .
Transcriptional Regulation and Post-Translational Modifications: Uromodulin undergoes extensive glycosylation, which is essential for its stability and function . Genetic mutations in the UMOD gene can lead to altered expression and function, resulting in kidney diseases .
Biomedical Research: Uromodulin is a valuable biomarker for kidney function and disease . Its levels in urine and serum are used to assess kidney health and diagnose conditions such as chronic kidney disease (CKD) and acute kidney injury (AKI) .
Diagnostic Tools and Therapeutic Strategies: Uromodulin is being explored as a therapeutic target for kidney diseases. Non-polymeric uromodulin supplementation has shown potential in improving the course of AKI and preventing the transition to CKD .
