Renal hypercalciuria : a physiological TRiP along the calciotropics

Abstract

Calcium is very important for many physiological functions that take place in the body. The interaction between intestines, kidneys, and bone is essential to maintain a normal calcium balance. The process of active calcium in the intestines and kidneys is very important to determine the amount of calcium resent in the body, which is regulated by calciotropic hormones like vitamin D and parathyroid hormone. In the kidney, calcium is reabsorbed from the pro-urine to the blood in a passive (paracellular, 85%) as well as an active (transcellular, 15%) manner. Furthermore, a small amount of calcium is excreted via the urine. The calcium channel TRPV5 is a key player in the process of active calcium reabsorption in the kidney. A mouse hypercalciuric mouse model was investigated intensively and the research described in this thesis shows new insights into the mechanisms that are involved in calcium homeostasis. This knowledge facilitates the development of new treatments for people with a disturbed calcium balance.