Role of Robo2 in Antenatal Hydronephrosis and Vesicoureteral Reflux in Mice
Author Information
Author(s): Wang Hang, Li Qinggang, Liu Juan, Mendelsohn Cathy, Salant David J., Lu Weining
Primary Institution: Boston University Medical Center
Hypothesis
Disruption of the Robo2 gene is associated with antenatal hydronephrosis and vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in mice.
Conclusion
Robo2 is crucial for the formation of a normal ureteral orifice and for maintaining an effective anti-reflux mechanism, with its loss leading to progressive congenital hydronephrosis and high-grade VUR.
Supporting Evidence
- Robo2-deficient mice developed high-grade vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) with no obstruction.
- Hydronephrosis progressed continuously after birth with no spontaneous resolution.
- Micro-ultrasonography was shown to be a reliable method for detecting hydronephrosis in mice.
Takeaway
This study shows that a gene called Robo2 helps keep urine from flowing backward in mice, and when it's not working, it can cause serious kidney problems.
Methodology
The study used noninvasive high-resolution micro-ultrasonography and pathological analysis to follow the progression of antenatal hydronephrosis in Robo2-deficient mice from embryo to adulthood.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in the interpretation of ultrasound results and histological confirmation.
Limitations
The study primarily focuses on a specific genetic model and may not fully represent the complexity of human conditions.
Participant Demographics
Mice, specifically Robo2-deficient and control strains.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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