Comparison of the urinary proteomic profile and protein expression in
kidney tissue in primary podocytopathy and membranous nephropathy with
nephrotic syndrome
Abstract
The underlying causes of primary FSGS and MCD remain unknown. The aim of
the study is to determine a proteomic profile capable of differentiating
between MCD, FSGS, and MN in patients with nephrotic syndrome. Material
and methods. The study cohort consisted of 56 participants, including
individuals with confirmed diagnoses of MCD (n=10), FSGS (n=22), and MN
with aPLA2R positivity (n=24). All urine samples underwent duplicate
analysis using Targeted quantitative LC-MS/MS employing MRM with stable
isotope-labeled peptide standards. Results. In FSGS patients, we
observed elevated levels of proteins associated with podocyte damage,
markers of lipid metabolism, oxidation processes, various serine
proteases and their inhibitors, complement components, as well as
proteins indicative of tubular cell damage and tubulo-interstitial
involvement. Notably, the expression of vitronectin in podocytes and
RBP4 in proximal tubular cells correlated with increased urine protein
excretion in FSGS. For MCD patients, we observed an increase in СD44,
afamin, corticosteroid-binding globulin, and plasma serine protease
inhibitor in urine samples. Conclusion. FSGS exhibits a diverse spectrum
of proteins in urine. This profile suggests a high profibrogenic
potential, implicating a broad range of mechanisms. These include
podocyte damage, activation of epithelial-mesenchymal transformation of
resident cells, complement system activation, tubulointerstitial damage,
and ECM accumulation.