Changes in density of cells Cajal as a prognostic factor in patients with ureterpelvic junction obstruction

• Grant number: 13/17113-2
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: December 01, 2013
• End date: November 30, 2015
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine - Surgery
• Principal Investigator: Ricardo Jordão Duarte
• Grantee: Ricardo Jordão Duarte
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina (FM). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Rodolfo Anísio Santana de Torres Bandeira

Abstract

Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is the most common form of antenatal hydronephrosis, occurring in 1:500 to 1:1250 newborns. It is defined as a process of restriction to the flow of urine into the renal pelvis and ureter, as the degree of obstruction may develop with progressive deterioration of renal function. Previous studies have been developed to define the pathophysiological basis of this disorder, however the real causal factor still needs further investigation.The Intertitial cell of Cajal (ICC) were first described by Ramon Y. Cajal in 1893, are pacemakers that facilitate the spread of a slow wave impulse contractile. ICC are identified by methods By c-Kit which is a proto-oncogene that activates the tyrosine kinase (CD117) signal transmission pathway. Identified primarily in the gastrointestinal tract, recently cells with receptors like intertitial cells of Cajal (ICC-LC), have been found also in the nervous system and genitourinary tract of several species, including the human. It is believed that the same propulsive peristaltic contraction responsible for the conduct of the bolus in the GI tract, is also by boosting the urine produced in the kidney to the bladder, passing around the ureter in a synchronized and coordinated. So perhaps similar to cells of Cajal are responsible for playing a role similar to their corresponding GIT. Having been identified in patients with stenosis of the UPJ, a lower density similar to ICC-LC at this location, suggesting that it is one of its factors causais. Thus identifying their true etiopathogenesis, can modify the type of treatment and prognosis. (AU)