The Kidney in Health and Disease Research Theme

The kidney and heart are integral in terms of haemodynamics and regulatory functions.  The kidney plays a central role in electrolyte balance, volume and blood pressure regulation, all of which are substantially modified in chronic kidney disease (CKD). 

Recent evidence from epidemiological studies has identified that 1 in 7 Australians have kidney disease, which has translated into increasing numbers entering the dialysis programs, primarily from increased diabetes and hypertension incidence.  Large epidemiological studies have identified increased risk of kidney failure in those with age >50, those who smoke, have hypertension or diabetes, or are persons of indigenous descent or have familial history of renal disease and/or diabetes.

In New Zealand, there is an epidemic of type 2 diabetes mellitus which will have major implications for the limited health resources of this country.  Obesity and other life style factors are significant contributing factors.  Nearly 50% of patients starting dialysis have diabetic kidney as the cause. Early interventions have the potential to reduce this risk substantially.  Patients with CKD have a 3 to 5 fold higher risk of cardiovascular events and diabetes with CKD have up to 20 fold death rate.

Early diagnosis can substantially affect outcomes, and timely intervention can greatly mitigate renal deterioration or extend the functional life of the kidneys, as well as reducing cardiovascular risk, offering material improvement to quality of life.   There is therefore a premium on understanding mechanisms of insult to the kidney, so as to allow earlier detection and better treatment.   In addition, the close link with cardiovascular risk factors, to morbidity and mortality, places renal disease, diabetes and cardiovascular disease into an interactive spectrum of metabolic disease. This is the overall focus of the research undertaken by the group.