Study on Autoimmune Podocytopathy in Children and Adults Using Advanced Blood and Kidney Tissue Testing To Understand Nephrotic Syndrome and Related Kidney Conditions

What this Trial Is About

Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder mainly affecting children, characterized by high protein levels in urine, low protein levels in blood, and swelling. Many children respond to steroid treatment, but some experience relapses, become dependent on therapy, or do not respond to standard treatments, potentially leading to chronic kidney disease. Research suggests that immune system factors, especially autoantibodies against nephrin, a key kidney protein, may influence disease activity and treatment response. This study investigates the presence of anti-nephrin autoantibodies and other autoantibodies targeting kidney filtration components in children and adults with nephrotic syndrome. Researchers will collect and analyze serum and kidney biopsy samples obtained during routine care using advanced laboratory techniques, including ELISA testing and high-resolution microscopy, to better understand these antibodies and their link to kidney structure and function. Participants will provide clinical data and biological samples collected as part of their usual care. The study will analyze anti-nephrin antibody levels from enrollment through five years of follow-up. Data from medical records and laboratory tests will be integrated to explore disease mechanisms and outcomes. This research aims to improve diagnosis and treatment personalization while reducing ineffective therapies.

SLIT ABS: Study on Patients With Autoimmune Podocytopathy