Three different hTERT-immortalized human primary renal proximal tubule epithelial cells (RPTEC) were modified and tested for functionality and stable expression of the OAT1, OCT2, and OAT3 proteins.

Each patient's urine sediment was analyzed and scored using a novel scale that ranged from 1 to 3 for the presence and number of red and white blood cells, renal tubular epithelial cells ...

In an attempt to demonstrate an exfoliative source of the inclusion-bearing cells in the renal parenchyma ... to those seen in the urine were actually present in these epithelial cells.