Steroid-responsive nephrotic syndrome: a generalised disorder of membrane negative charge
Levin, M.; Smith, C.; Walters, M.D.; Gascoine, P.; Barratt, T.M.
Lancet 2(8449): 239-242
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0140-6736 PMID: 2862418 Document Number: 248243
A simple chemical test, based on the binding of the cationic dye alcian-blue 8GX (AB), was devised to measure negative charge on cell membranes. The test demonstrated that AB binding to red blood cells and platelets is significantly less in children with steroid-responsive nephrotic syndrome (SRSN) or nephrotic syndrome associated with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis than in normal controls. The sialic acid content of the nephrotic cell membrane is normal. A generalized loss of membrane negative charge occurs in SRNS and this is due to neutralization rather than absence of anionic groups.