Early marker of proteinuria in patients treated with an Anti-vegf treatment

Abstract

This document provides methods and materials related to determining whether or not a human receiving a therapy (e.g., an anti-VEGF therapy such as a bevacizumab therapy) has developed or is at risk for developing proteinuria. For example, methods and materials for detecting urinary podocytes to determine whether or not a human receiving anti-VEGF therapy has or is at risk for developing proteinuria or kidney injury are provided.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61 / 288,514, filed Dec. 21, 2009. The disclosure of the prior application is considered part of (and is incorporated by reference in) the disclosure of this application.BACKGROUND [0002]1. Technical Field[0003]This document relates to methods and materials involved in determining whether or not a human receiving an anti-VEGF therapy has podocyturia (e.g., urinary excretion of podocytes). For example, this document provides methods and materials for detecting the presence or absence of podocytes in a urine sample from a human receiving an anti-VEGF therapy to determine whether or not the human has developed or is at risk for developing proteinuria or kidney injury.[0004]2. Background Information[0005]Angiogenesis has a critical role in the growth, invasion, and metastasis of malignancies. Using angiogenesis inhibitors as an approach to cancer treatment has made si...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes methods and materials for detecting proteinurea in humans who receive anti-VEGF therapy. By identifying patients with proteinuriea, who may develop kidney injury or toxicity as a result of the treatment, appropriate treatment can be initiated. By identifying patients without proteinuriea, unnecessary cessation of anti-VEGF therapy can be avoided. By detecting the presence of urinary podocytes, which indicate proteinuria or a risk for it, this patent provides an effective way to identify patients who may need treatment and avoid unnecessary treatment cessation.

Problems solved by technology

However, a side effect in about 30% of cancer patients receiving anti-VEGF therapy is proteinuria (≧300 mg of total protein in a 24-hour urine sample).

Proteinuria can be associated with characteristic renal pathologic changes of glomerular endotheliosis, leading to renal toxicity.

Images