Serum albumin could prevent amyloid fibril formation in dialysis patients (“Markedly inhibits amyloid fibril formation”)

Medical Xpress / Osaka University / Nature Communications ^ | Oct. 6, 2022 | Kichitaro Nakajima et al

[ConservativeMind]

To identify additional risk factors for developing DRA, the researchers tested the effects of serum, which is the protein-rich liquid part of blood, on β2m fibril formation. They also looked at the effects of serum from patients who were new to dialysis versus long-term dialysis patients, as well as the effects of serum samples taken immediately before or immediately after a dialysis session.

"The results showed that serum albumin, the most abundant protein in serum, markedly inhibits β2m amyloid fibril formation," states Yuji Goto, senior author of the study. "This effect was ameliorated by maintenance dialysis in the short term but deteriorated in dialysis patients in the long term."

More detailed investigations revealed that the inhibitory effect of serum albumin on β2m amyloid fibril formation was due to a phenomenon called macromolecular crowding, in which weak nonspecific interactions between serum albumin and β2m interferes with the ability of β2m to form fibrils. Maintenance dialysis temporarily increases the serum albumin concentration, and therefore decreases the risk of developing DRA, whereas decreased serum albumin concentrations in patients with kidney failure lead to an increased risk of DRA over the long term.

"Taken together, our findings show that low serum albumin concentrations are a risk factor for dialysis patients developing DRA," states Nakajima.

These findings suggest that monitoring serum albumin concentrations in patients on long-term dialysis could help predict, and ideally delay, DRA onset. Furthermore, given that reduced serum albumin also correlates with the onset of Alzheimer's disease, this risk factor could also be applicable to other amyloidosis.

[ConservativeMind]

Eating more protein is a way to increase blood serum albumin levels, but for kidney disease patients on on dialysis, this is discouraged. It appears more frequent maintenance dialysis can also help for some time.

Interestingly, testing for albumin appears to help with other amyloid diseases, including Alzheimer’s.

Do note there are some supplements that have shown they can increase eGFR numbers, slightly reversing kidney disease progression.

[ConservativeMind]

The “Take Charge Of Your Health” Ping List
This high volume ping list is for health articles and studies which describe something you or your doctor, when informed, may be able to immediately implement for your benefit.

Email me to get on either the “Common/Top Issues” (20 - 25% fewer pings) or “Everything” list.

[bioqubit]

albumin is a messy complex protein. Vitamin C binds to it. Aspirin binds to it. God only knows what else binds to albumin. The point is that it may favor binding with compounds that promote fibrosis. Let the experiments begin.