Urate Oxidase and Urate (Part 2): Physiology, Gout, and Kidney Stones

The video explores urate oxidase, an enzyme not expressed in humans, and its role in purine catabolism. It explains the weak acid nature of uric acid, its solubility issues, and the equilibrium between urate and uric acid. The video discusses hyperuricemia, gout, and the role of proteins like SLC 2A9 in urate reabsorption. It details the crystallization process of uric acid, leading to painful conditions like gout and kidney stones. The video concludes with a preview of the next topic on uric acid's role as a free radical scavenger.

What is the primary reason humans do not express urate oxidase?

• The gene is transcriptionally inactive.

• Humans lack the gene entirely.

• The enzyme is degraded quickly.

• It is inhibited by dietary factors.

What is the main difference between uric acid and urate?

• Urate is more soluble than uric acid.

• Urate is found only in humans.

• Uric acid is a strong acid, while urate is a weak base.

• Uric acid is the protonated form, while urate is the deprotonated form.

Which protein is involved in the reabsorption of uric acid in the nephron?

• SLC 2A9

• Ammonium transporter

• Urate oxidase

• RNA polymerase

How does high fructose corn syrup consumption affect uric acid levels?

• It decreases uric acid production.

• It increases uric acid reabsorption.

• It enhances uric acid secretion.

• It has no effect on uric acid levels.

What is gout primarily caused by?

• Crystallization of uric acid

• Vitamin deficiency

• Excessive exercise

• Bacterial infection

Where do uric acid crystals typically accumulate in the body?

• In the big toe

• In the liver

• In the lungs

• In the brain

What role do seed crystals play in kidney stone formation?

• They have no role in kidney stones.

• They initiate the crystallization of calcium oxalate.

• They prevent crystallization.

• They dissolve existing stones.

What is a common treatment for breaking up kidney stones?

• Radiation therapy

• Chemotherapy

• Lithotripsy

• Antibiotics

What is the potential benefit of uric acid mentioned for future discussion?

• It acts as a free radical scavenger.

• It enhances muscle growth.

• It improves digestion.

• It increases bone density.

What is the relationship between uric acid and kidney stones?

• Uric acid has no effect on kidney stones.

• Uric acid dissolves kidney stones.

• Uric acid prevents kidney stones.

• Uric acid can lead to the formation of kidney stones.