AimsGlutathione (GSH) plays an important role in protecting cells against oxidative damage. ABCC1 protein transports GSH. Although this protein is largely studied in cancer, due to multidrug resistance phenotype, its role in the tubular cells of the kidney is unknown. The goal of this study was to find out whether ABCC1 has a role in protecting cells from the distal nephron against the stress caused by high medullar osmolality.Main MethodsMA104 cells were treated with high concentrations of sodium chloride, urea, or both to raise the osmolality of the culture medium. Cell viability was accessed by MTT and trypan blue assays. ABCC1 expression and extrusion of carboxi-fluorescein (CF), a fluorescent ABCC1 substrate, were measured by flow cytometry.Key FindingsIncubation of MA104 cells in a high sodium concentration medium resulted in changes in cell granularity and altered expression and activity of ABCC1. Urea did not alter ABCC1 expression or activity, but reversed the observed NaCl effects. High sodium concentrations also had a negative effect on cell viability and urea also protected cells against this effect.SignificanceOur findings demonstrate that ABCC1 plays a significant role in the protection of kidney epithelial cells against the stress caused by high sodium environment present in renal medulla.

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Purpose: This study uses participatory research methods with survivors of homicide and their service providers to explore the feasibility and acceptability of a culturally-adapted mindfulness intervention for stresss reduction and resilience in homicide survivors. Procedures: Our mixed methods approach included: (a) previewing a Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction program with providers and Survivors; (b) using their iterative feedback during focus groups to revise the curriculum; and (c) studying the acceptability of the adapted curriculum for Survivors? through focus group and standardized data collection. Findings: We learned that providers use mindfulness for self-care and both providers and survivors view the approach for Survivors as promising. Based on attendance, participation and focus group data, the adapted curriculum was both feasible and acceptable. Survivors’ reports suggested most experienced improved emotion regulation, feelings of empowerment and better coping. Conclusions: Culturally-adapted mindfulness programs may support healing for homicide survivors and possibly other low income people of color with significant trauma backgrounds. Further investigation is needed to rigorously assess outcomes and specific effects, both positive and negative, of mindfulness in this population.

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