Fig. 6

Schematic diagram of Ahnak KO in urinary system. The levels of ion channel activity, transmembrane transporter activity, and calcium ion homeostasis-related genes is reduced in Ahnak KO kidneys. Muscle development, muscle system processes, and muscle contraction-related gene expression is downregulated in the Ahnak KO ureter. This altered gene expression may induce hydronephrosis and hydroureter formation through the loss of calcium homeostasis and muscle development, including peristalsis