Characterization of kidney injury molecule-1 in cats.

Results: Three expressed feline KIM-1 transcript variants comprising 894, 810, and 705 bp were identified in renal tissue. KIM-1 immunoassays yielded positive results in urine of cats with conditions associated with AKI, but not chronic KD. Immunohistochemistry of kidney sections identified KIM-1 in proximal tubular cells of cats with positive urine immunoassay results. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Kidney injury molecule 1 was expressed in specific segments of the nephron and detected in urine of cats at risk of AKI. Urine KIM-1 immunoassay may be a useful indicator of tubular injury.