The Study of Urinary Biomarkers in Patients With Hypomagnesemia

Various medications (amiloride, SGLT2 inhibitors, calcineurin inhibitors) and medical conditions (type 2 diabetes mellitus, genetic factors) are associated with changes in blood magnesium levels, primarily by affecting magnesium transport in different regions of the kidney tubules. Over the past two decades, the discovery of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in urine has led to the emergence of a rapidly growing scientific field, offering an excellent non-invasive source for studying renal physiology. In this exploratory pilot study, we aim to enhance the mechanistic understanding of magnesium homeostasis by conducting noninvasive multi-omics (i.e., lipidomics, microRNAomics, and phospho-proteomics) research using urinary extracellular vesicles (uEVs) as biomarkers among patients with a history of hypomagnesemia. Fasting and post-magnesium-rich meal morning urine samples (6 am to 12 pm) will be collected at various intervals, depending on the most recent serum magnesium levels available during the study period. We will examine biomarkers capable of dissecting the mechanisms of hypomagnesemia.

Inclusion criteria

• Adult (≥18 years old)
• History of hypomagnesemia (serum Mg <1.7 mg/dL)

Exclusion criteria

• Current or recent use of loop, thiazide, or thiazide-like diuretics within the last 3 months