(July 2, 2009 - Insidermedicine) A specific protein capable of stimulating an immune response has been linked with idiopathic membranous nephropathy, according to research published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Here is some information about idiopathic membranous nephropathy:

•    Membranous nephropathy is a kidney disorder in which inflammation and other changes in the kidney affect its functioning.

•    The condition occurs in about 1 in every 10,000 people

•    Symptoms include swelling, weight gain, loss of appetite, frequent urination at night, and high blood pressure

Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine analyzed blood samples of patients with membranous nephropathy, other kidney or autoimmune disorders, and healthy controls while in the presence of extracts taken from normal kidney samples.

Antibodies to the M-type phospholipase A2 receptor were found in 70% of those with idiopathic membranous nephropathy, but not in those who had similar problems from another medical condition. This protein is present in the cells that are damaged from idiopathic membranous nephropathy, and in immune deposits found in patients with this disease.

Today's research identifies a protein that may be linked with idiopathic membranous nephropathy, offering both a way to help diagnose the disease and a potential target for future treatment.

For Insidermedicine in Depth, I'm Dr. Kelly Schweitzer.