Methods for detecting deficient cellular membrane tightly bound magnesium for disease diagnoses

Abstract

This invention relates to methods for detecting the deficiency of magnesium tightly bound to cellular membranes, i.e., magnesium binding defect, which deficiency is associated with certain abnormal physiological states, e.g., salt-sensitive essential hypertension or Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE [0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application having Ser. No. 10 / 053,669, filed Jan. 24, 2002, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application having Ser. No. 09 / 265,690, filed Mar. 10, 1999, the disclosures of which are incorporated in full herein.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of Invention [0003] This invention relates to methods and diagnostic kits for detecting the cellular membrane magnesium binding defect, which deficiency is critically associated with certain abnormal physiological states, e.g. sodium-sensitive essential hypertension and type 2 insulin-resistant diabetes mellitus. [0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art [0005] Elevated arterial pressure, namely hypertension, is probably among the most important public health problems in developed countries. It is of common occurrence, asymptomatic, readily detectable, and often leads to lethal complications if not treated. Although there are exceptions, most untreated adul...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent is about methods for detecting physiological disorders in humans, specifically those related to magnesium levels and the breakdown of certain proteins. These methods involve measuring the levels of certain peptides in blood plasma. The patent proposes that these peptides are indicators of these disorders and can help with their diagnosis and treatment.

Problems solved by technology

It is of common occurrence, asymptomatic, readily detectable, and often leads to lethal complications if not treated.

Even individuals with relatively mild disease—those individuals without evidence of end-organ damage—if left untreated for 7 to 10 years have a high risk of developing significant complications, and more than 50 percent of them will ultimately experience end-organ damage related to hypertension.

Thus, even in its mild forms, hypertension can be a lethal disease, if left untreated.

Such complications include atherosclerosis, the risk for which is greatest in poorly controlled patients.

However, applicant has observed the highly frequent occurrence of the magnesium binding defect in the erythrocyte membranes of mildly affected Type 2 diabetics.