Loss of lean body mass in uremia

Abstract

The pathophysiological consequences of kidney failure and other catabolic conditions such as diabetes, burn injury, cancer, sepsis, muscle denervation and starvation, include loss of protein stores. This chapter will describe the impressive concordance between studies performed with cultured muscle cells and studies involving experimental animals and patients suggests that there is strong evolutionary pressure to maintain these stress-related responses. Understanding the mechanisms leading to activation of transcription could lead to improved methods of preventing the loss of muscle protein. © 2006 Humana Press Inc.