Abstract
Uromodulin (UMOD) is a glycoprotein expressed on the luminal surface of the apical membrane of renal tubular epithelial cells forming the thick ascending limb of Henle. A specific, but as yet unidentified, protease(s) releases UMOD into the urine, where it probably contributes to colloid osmotic pressure, retards passage of positively charged electrolytes, prevents urinary tract infection and modulates formation of supersaturated salts and their crystals.
The review summarizes the knowledge of UMOD physiology and pathophysiology gathered from its invention in 1950 up to date including genetics, expression, biosynthesis, isolation, determination and clinical value.