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Stamellou E, Agrawal S, Siegerist F, Buse M, Kuppe C, Lange T, Buhl EM, Alam J, Strieder T, Boor P, Ostendorf T, Gröne HJ, Floege J, Smoyer WE, Endlich N, Moeller MJ. Inhibition of the glucocorticoid receptor attenuates proteinuric kidney diseases in multiple species. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2024; 39:1181-1193. [PMID: 38037533 PMCID: PMC11210988 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfad254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glucocorticoids are the treatment of choice for proteinuric patients with minimal change disease (MCD) and primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). Immunosuppressive as well as direct effects on podocytes are believed to mediate their actions. In this study, we analyzed the anti-proteinuric effects of inhibition of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) in glomerular epithelial cells, including podocytes. METHODS We employed genetic and pharmacological approaches to inhibit the GR. Genetically, we used Pax8-Cre/GRfl/fl mice to specifically inactivate the GR in kidney epithelial cells. Pharmacologically, we utilized a glucocorticoid antagonist called mifepristone. RESULTS Genetic inactivation of GR, specifically in kidney epithelial cells, using Pax8-Cre/GRfl/fl mice, ameliorated proteinuria following protein overload. We further tested the effects of pharmacological GR inhibition in three models and species: the puromycin aminonucleoside-induced nephrosis model in rats, the protein overload model in mice and the inducible transgenic NTR/MTZ zebrafish larvae with specific and reversible podocyte injury. In all three models, both pharmacological GR activation and inhibition consistently and significantly ameliorated proteinuria. Additionally, we translated our findings to humans, where three nephrotic adult patients with MCD or primary FSGS with contraindications or insufficient responses to corticosteroids were treated with mifepristone. This treatment resulted in a clinically relevant reduction of proteinuria. CONCLUSIONS Thus, across multiple species and proteinuria models, both genetic and pharmacological GR inhibition was at least as effective as pronounced GR activation. While the mechanism remains perplexing, GR inhibition may be a novel and targeted therapeutic approach to treat glomerular proteinuria potentially bypassing adverse actions of steroids.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Receptors, Glucocorticoid/metabolism
- Receptors, Glucocorticoid/antagonists & inhibitors
- Mice
- Proteinuria/drug therapy
- Proteinuria/etiology
- Proteinuria/metabolism
- Humans
- Rats
- Podocytes/metabolism
- Podocytes/drug effects
- Podocytes/pathology
- Zebrafish
- Male
- Mifepristone/pharmacology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental/drug therapy
- Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental/metabolism
- Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental/pathology
- Female
- Kidney Diseases/drug therapy
- Kidney Diseases/etiology
- Kidney Diseases/metabolism
- Puromycin Aminonucleoside
- Hormone Antagonists/pharmacology
- Nephrosis, Lipoid/drug therapy
- Nephrosis, Lipoid/metabolism
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Transgenic
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Stamellou
- Division of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Pathology and Electron Microscopy Facility, RWTH University of Aachen, Aachen, Germany
- Department of Nephrology, Medical School, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Shipra Agrawal
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Florian Siegerist
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Marc Buse
- Division of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Christoph Kuppe
- Division of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Experimental Medicine and Systems Biology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Tim Lange
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Eva Miriam Buhl
- Institute of Pathology and Electron Microscopy Facility, RWTH University of Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jessica Alam
- Division of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Thiago Strieder
- Division of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Peter Boor
- Division of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Pathology and Electron Microscopy Facility, RWTH University of Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Tammo Ostendorf
- Division of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Jürgen Floege
- Division of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - William E Smoyer
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, and Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Nicole Endlich
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- NIPOKA, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Marcus J Moeller
- Division of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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2
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Xie Y, Yuan Q, Cao X, Qiu Y, Zeng J, Cao Y, Xie Y, Meng X, Huang K, Yi F, Zhang C. Deficiency of Nuclear Receptor Coactivator 3 Aggravates Diabetic Kidney Disease by Impairing Podocyte Autophagy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308378. [PMID: 38483947 PMCID: PMC11109634 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Nuclear receptors (NRs) are important transcriptional factors that mediate autophagy, preventing podocyte injury and the progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). However, the role of nuclear receptor coactivators that are powerful enhancers for the transcriptional activity of NRs in DKD remains unclear. In this study, a significant decrease in Nuclear Receptor Coactivator 3 (NCOA3) is observed in injured podocytes caused by high glucose treatment. Additionally, NCOA3 overexpression counteracts podocyte damage by improving autophagy. Further, Src family member, Fyn is identified to be the target of NCOA3 that mediates the podocyte autophagy process. Mechanistically, NCOA3 regulates the transcription of Fyn in a nuclear receptor, PPAR-γ dependent way. Podocyte-specific NCOA3 knockout aggravates albuminuria, glomerular sclerosis, podocyte injury, and autophagy in DKD mice. However, the Fyn inhibitor, AZD0530, rescues podocyte injury of NCOA3 knockout DKD mice. Renal NCOA3 overexpression with lentivirus can ameliorate podocyte damage and improve podocyte autophagy in DKD mice. Taken together, the findings highlight a novel target, NCOA3, that protects podocytes from high glucose injury by maintaining autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaru Xie
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430000China
| | - Qian Yuan
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430000China
| | - Xinyi Cao
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430000China
| | - Yang Qiu
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430000China
| | - Jieyu Zeng
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430000China
| | - Yiling Cao
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430000China
| | - Yajuan Xie
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430000China
| | - Xianfang Meng
- Department of Neurobiology, Institute of Brain Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430000China
| | - Kun Huang
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430000China
| | - Fan Yi
- The Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong ProvinceDepartment of PharmacologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesShandong UniversityJinan250100China
| | - Chun Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430000China
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3
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Bhayana S, Dougherty JA, Kamigaki Y, Agrawal S, Wijeratne S, Fitch J, Waller AP, Wolfgang KJ, White P, Kerlin BA, Smoyer WE. Glucocorticoid- and pioglitazone-induced proteinuria reduction in experimental NS both correlate with glomerular ECM modulation. iScience 2024; 27:108631. [PMID: 38188512 PMCID: PMC10770536 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a common glomerular disease. Although glucocorticoids (GC) are the primary treatment, the PPARγ agonist pioglitazone (Pio) also reduces proteinuria in patients with NS and directly protects podocytes from injury. Because both drugs reduce proteinuria, we hypothesized these effects result from overlapping transcriptional patterns. Systems biology approaches compared glomerular transcriptomes from rats with PAN-induced NS treated with GC vs. Pio and identified 29 commonly regulated genes-of-interest, primarily involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. Correlation with clinical idiopathic NS patient datasets confirmed glomerular ECM dysregulation as a potential mechanism of injury. Cellular deconvolution in silico revealed GC- and Pio-induced amelioration of altered genes primarily within podocytes and mesangial cells. While validation studies are indicated, these analyses identified molecular pathways involved in the early stages of NS (prior to scarring), suggesting that targeting glomerular ECM dysregulation may enable a future non-immunosuppressive approach for proteinuria reduction in idiopathic NS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sagar Bhayana
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Julie A. Dougherty
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Yu Kamigaki
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Shipra Agrawal
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Saranga Wijeratne
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - James Fitch
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Amanda P. Waller
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Katelyn J. Wolfgang
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Peter White
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Bryce A. Kerlin
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - William E. Smoyer
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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4
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Locatelli F, Del Vecchio L, Ponticelli C. Systemic and targeted steroids for the treatment of IgA nephropathy. Clin Kidney J 2023; 16:ii40-ii46. [PMID: 38053978 PMCID: PMC10695509 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfad224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is a common glomerulonephritis partially correlated with mucosal immune system dysfunction. Progressive renal failure occurs in many patients, with about 30-50% of the patients with IgAN developing end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Many treatments have been used for decades, despite uncertainty about their effectiveness and the ideal dose. Randomised controlled trials reported that systemic glucocorticoids can be an effective treatment for patients with persistent and significant proteinuria despite renin-angiotensin system inhibitors use possibly causing systemic side effects. The primary focus of IgAN management should be based on optimised supportive care, including renin-angiotensin system (RAS) blockade and now SGLT2 inhibitors. The novel targeted-release formulation (TRF) of budesonide has been tested to reduce the adverse events of systemic steroids by delivering the drug to the distal ileum. The local efficacy of TRF-budesonide may represent a novel and promising approach to treating IgAN. Two clinical trials showed that TRF-budesonide could significantly reduce proteinuria and haematuria and possibly preserve renal function while significantly reducing the side effects. However, the limited number of treated patients and the relatively short follow-up suggest caution before considering budesonide superior to the current six-months steroid pulses scheme. Long-term data on the efficacy and safety of TRF budesonide are awaited, together with the design of trials with a head-to-head comparison with systemic steroids before considering TRF-budesonide as the standard of care treatment for IgAN nephropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Locatelli
- Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, Alessandro Manzoni Hospital, Lecco, Italy
| | - Lucia Del Vecchio
- Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, Sant’ Anna Hospital, ASST Lariana, Como, Italy
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5
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Gao X, Qiao Y, Li S, Shi H, Qu G, Ji J, Gan W, Zhang A. tRF-003634 alleviates adriamycin-induced podocyte injury by reducing the stability of TLR4 mRNA. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293043. [PMID: 37856510 PMCID: PMC10586663 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Podocyte injury plays a key role in the production of proteinuria and is closely related to the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Alleviating podocyte injury is beneficial to prevent the occurrence and development of CKD. tRNA-derived RNA fragments (tRFs) are associated with podocytes injury processes such as protein binding, cell adhesion, synapses, the actin cytoskeleton. Our previous data showed that tRF-003634 tightly correlated with podocyte injury, while its effect remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the role of tRF-003634 in podocyte injury and the potential mechanisms. The expression level of tRF-003634, nephrin, podocin and tRF-003634 targeted toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in podocytes and kidney tissues were examined by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), western blot and immunohistochemistry. The biochemical indices were monitored and renal pathological changes were assessed by hematoxylin and eosin PAS staining. Furthermore, potential target genes of tRF-003634 were screened using high-throughput mRNA sequencing, and then confirmed by RNA pulse-chase analysis. The results showed that tRF-003634 was downregulated in adriamycin (Adr)-induced podocyte injury. Overexpression of tRF-003634 increased the expression of nephrin and podocin in vivo and in vitro and alleviated podocyte injury. Meanwhile, overexpression of tRF-003634 alleviated proteinuria and renal pathological damage. In addition, high-throughput sequencing after overexpression of tRF-003634 showed that TLR4 might be a downstream target gene. tRF-003634 can alleviate podocyte injury by reducing the stability of TLR4 mRNA, possibly by competing with TLR4 mRNA to bind to YTH domain-containing protein 1 (YTHDC1). In conclusion, tRF-003634 was underexpressed in Adr-induced podocyte injury, and its overexpression alleviated podocyte injury in vitro and in vivo by reducing the stability of TLR4 mRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqing Gao
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yunyang Qiao
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shanwen Li
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huimin Shi
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Gaoting Qu
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jialing Ji
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weihua Gan
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Aiqing Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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6
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Yasir M, Park J, Chun W. EWS/FLI1 Characterization, Activation, Repression, Target Genes and Therapeutic Opportunities in Ewing Sarcoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15173. [PMID: 37894854 PMCID: PMC10607184 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite their clonal origins, tumors eventually develop into complex communities made up of phenotypically different cell subpopulations, according to mounting evidence. Tumor cell-intrinsic programming and signals from geographically and temporally changing microenvironments both contribute to this variability. Furthermore, the mutational load is typically lacking in childhood malignancies of adult cancers, and they still exhibit high cellular heterogeneity levels largely mediated by epigenetic mechanisms. Ewing sarcomas represent highly aggressive malignancies affecting both bone and soft tissue, primarily afflicting adolescents. Unfortunately, the outlook for patients facing relapsed or metastatic disease is grim. These tumors are primarily fueled by a distinctive fusion event involving an FET protein and an ETS family transcription factor, with the most prevalent fusion being EWS/FLI1. Despite originating from a common driver mutation, Ewing sarcoma cells display significant variations in transcriptional activity, both within and among tumors. Recent research has pinpointed distinct fusion protein activities as a principal source of this heterogeneity, resulting in markedly diverse cellular phenotypes. In this review, we aim to characterize the role of the EWS/FLI fusion protein in Ewing sarcoma by exploring its general mechanism of activation and elucidating its implications for tumor heterogeneity. Additionally, we delve into potential therapeutic opportunities to target this aberrant fusion protein in the context of Ewing sarcoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Wanjoo Chun
- Department of Pharmacology, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (M.Y.); (J.P.)
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7
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de Oliveira E Silva Ullmann T, Ramalho BJ, Laurindo LF, Tofano RJ, Rubira CJ, Guiguer EL, Barbalho SM, Flato UAP, Sloan KP, Araujo AC. Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation in Diabetic Kidney Disease: An Systematic Review. J Ren Nutr 2023; 33:618-628. [PMID: 37302723 DOI: 10.1053/j.jrn.2023.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes Mellitus is a highly prevalent condition in which Diabetes Mellitus type 2 is the most common. Diabetic Kidney Disease is one of the most relevant complications and affects approximately one-third of patients with Diabetes Mellitus. It is characterized by increased urinary protein excretion and a decrease in glomerular filtration rate, assessed by serum creatinine levels. Recent studies have shown that vitamin D levels are low in these patients. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review of the effects of vitamin D supplementation on proteinuria and creatinine, which are important markers for assessing the severity of kidney disease in patients with Diabetic Kidney Disease. PUBMED, EMBASE, and COCHRANE databases were consulted, Preferred Reporting Items for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines were followed, and the COCHRANE toll for bias assessment was applied. Six papers were quantitative studies and fulfilled the inclusion criteria for this review. The results showed that vitamin D supplementation of 50,000 I.U./week for 8 weeks effectively reduced proteinuria and creatinine in patients with Diabetic Kidney Disease, particularly in patients with Diabetes Mellitus type 2. Vitamin D supplementation is beneficial for patients with Diabetic Kidney Disease by having essential effects on disease-related inflammatory markers, such as the reduction of proteinuria and creatinine. However, more clinical trials must be conducted to evaluate the intervention among more significant numbers of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thais de Oliveira E Silva Ullmann
- Postgraduate Program in Structural and Functional Interactions in Rehabilitation, University of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil; Hospital Beneficente Unimar - University of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ricardo José Tofano
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil; Hospital Beneficente Unimar - University of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Claudio José Rubira
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil; Hospital Beneficente Unimar - University of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Elen Landgraf Guiguer
- Postgraduate Program in Structural and Functional Interactions in Rehabilitation, University of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Biochemistry, School of Food and Technology of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandra Maria Barbalho
- Postgraduate Program in Structural and Functional Interactions in Rehabilitation, University of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Biochemistry, School of Food and Technology of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Uri Adrian Prync Flato
- Postgraduate Program in Structural and Functional Interactions in Rehabilitation, University of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil; Hospital Beneficente Unimar - University of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Adriano Cressoni Araujo
- Postgraduate Program in Structural and Functional Interactions in Rehabilitation, University of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Marília, São Paulo, Brazil
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8
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DiKun KM, Gudas LJ. Vitamin A and retinoid signaling in the kidneys. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 248:108481. [PMID: 37331524 PMCID: PMC10528136 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Vitamin A (VA, retinol) and its metabolites (commonly called retinoids) are required for the proper development of the kidney during embryogenesis, but retinoids also play key roles in the function and repair of the kidney in adults. Kidneys filter 180-200 liters of blood per day and each kidney contains approximately 1 million nephrons, which are often referred to as the 'functional units' of the kidney. Each nephron consists of a glomerulus and a series of tubules (proximal tubule, loop of Henle, distal tubule, and collecting duct) surrounded by a network of capillaries. VA is stored in the liver and converted to active metabolites, most notably retinoic acid (RA), which acts as an agonist for the retinoic acid receptors ((RARs α, β, and γ) to regulate gene transcription. In this review we discuss some of the actions of retinoids in the kidney after injury. For example, in an ischemia-reperfusion model in mice, injury-associated loss of proximal tubule (PT) differentiation markers occurs, followed by re-expression of these differentiation markers during PT repair. Notably, healthy proximal tubules express ALDH1a2, the enzyme that metabolizes retinaldehyde to RA, but transiently lose ALDH1a2 expression after injury, while nearby myofibroblasts transiently acquire RA-producing capabilities after injury. These results indicate that RA is important for renal tubular injury repair and that compensatory mechanisms exist for the generation of endogenous RA by other cell types upon proximal tubule injury. ALDH1a2 levels also increase in podocytes, epithelial cells of the glomeruli, after injury, and RA promotes podocyte differentiation. We also review the ability of exogenous, pharmacological doses of RA and receptor selective retinoids to treat numerous kidney diseases, including kidney cancer and diabetic kidney disease, and the emerging genetic evidence for the importance of retinoids and their receptors in maintaining or restoring kidney function after injury. In general, RA has a protective effect on the kidney after various types of injuries (eg. ischemia, cytotoxic actions of chemicals, hyperglycemia related to diabetes). As more research into the actions of each of the three RARs in the kidney is carried out, a greater understanding of the actions of vitamin A is likely to lead to new insights into the pathology of kidney disorders and the development of new therapies for kidney diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krysta M DiKun
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA; New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA; Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lorraine J Gudas
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA; Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA; Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY, USA.
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9
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Carrasco AG, Izquierdo-Lahuerta A, Valverde ÁM, Ni L, Flores-Salguero E, Coward RJ, Medina-Gómez G. The protective role of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma in lipotoxic podocytes. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2023; 1868:159329. [PMID: 37156296 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2023.159329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Podocytes are specialized epithelial cells that maintain the glomerular filtration barrier. These cells are susceptible to lipotoxicity in the obese state and irreversibly lost during kidney disease leading to proteinuria and renal injury. PPARγ is a nuclear receptor whose activation can be renoprotective. This study examined the role of PPARγ in the lipotoxic podocyte using a PPARγ knockout (PPARγKO) cell line and since the activation of PPARγ by Thiazolidinediones (TZD) is limited by their side effects, it explored other alternative therapies to prevent podocyte lipotoxic damage. Wild-type and PPARγKO podocytes were exposed to the fatty acid palmitic acid (PA) and treated with the TZD (Pioglitazone) and/or the Retinoid X receptor (RXR) agonist Bexarotene (BX). It revealed that podocyte PPARγ is essential for podocyte function. PPARγ deletion reduced key podocyte proteins including podocin and nephrin while increasing basal levels of oxidative and ER stress causing apoptosis and cell death. A combination therapy of low-dose TZD and BX activated both the PPARγ and RXR receptors reducing PA-induced podocyte damage. This study confirms the crucial role of PPARγ in podocyte biology and that their activation in combination therapy of TZD and BX may be beneficial in the treatment of obesity-related kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Almudena G Carrasco
- Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Dpto. de Ciencias Básicas de la Salud, Avda. de Atenas s/n. 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Adriana Izquierdo-Lahuerta
- Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Dpto. de Ciencias Básicas de la Salud, Avda. de Atenas s/n. 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Ángela M Valverde
- Institute of Biomedical Research "Alberto Sols" (CSIC-UAM), 28029 Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBER-dem), ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain; MEMORISM Research Unit of University Rey Juan Carlos-Institute of Biomedical Research "Alberto Sols" (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Lan Ni
- Bristol Renal, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Elena Flores-Salguero
- Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Dpto. de Ciencias Básicas de la Salud, Avda. de Atenas s/n. 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Richard J Coward
- Bristol Renal, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Gema Medina-Gómez
- Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Dpto. de Ciencias Básicas de la Salud, Avda. de Atenas s/n. 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain; MEMORISM Research Unit of University Rey Juan Carlos-Institute of Biomedical Research "Alberto Sols" (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.
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10
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Wagner N, Wagner KD. Recent Insights into the Role of PPARs in Disease. Cells 2023; 12:1572. [PMID: 37371042 DOI: 10.3390/cells12121572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are nuclear receptors that play important roles in cell proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, and cancer [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Wagner
- CNRS, INSERM, iBV, Université Côte d'Azur, 06107 Nice, France
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11
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Tang S, Wu X, Dai Q, Li Z, Yang S, Liu Y, Yi B, Wang J, Liao Q, Zhang W, Zhang H. Vitamin D receptor attenuate ischemia-reperfusion kidney injury via inhibiting ATF4. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:158. [PMID: 37173347 PMCID: PMC10182024 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01456-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) is one of the key effectors of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS), ATF4/CHOP pathway-mediated ERS plays an important role in the progression of acute kidney disease (AKI). We have previously reported that Vitamin D receptor (VDR) exert renoprotection in rodent AKI models. However, whether ATF4, as well as ERS, is involved in the protective effect of VDR in ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) induced AKI is unknown. Herein, we showed that VDR agonist paricalcitol and VDR overexpression alleviated I/R-induced renal injury and cells apoptosis with decreased ATF4 and attenuated ERS, while VDR deletion significantly resulted in further increased ATF4, more drastic ERS and renal injury in I/R mice models. In addition, paricalcitol remarkably reduced Tunicamycin (TM) induced ATF4 and ERS with attenuated renal injury, while VDR deletion aggravated the above changes in TM mice models. Moreover, overexpression of ATF4 partially abolished the effect of paricalcitol against TM-induced ERS and apoptosis, while inhibition of ATF4 enhanced the protective effect of paricalcitol. Bioinformatics analysis indicated potential VDR binding sites on ATF4 promotor sequence which were further confirmed by ChIP-qPCR and dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. In conclusion, VDR attenuated I/R-induced AKI by suppressing ERS partly via transcriptional regulation of ATF4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiqi Tang
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
- The Critical Kidney Disease Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xueqin Wu
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
- The Critical Kidney Disease Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Qing Dai
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
- The Critical Kidney Disease Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zhi Li
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
- The Critical Kidney Disease Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Shikun Yang
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
- The Critical Kidney Disease Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
- The Critical Kidney Disease Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Bin Yi
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
- The Critical Kidney Disease Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Jianwen Wang
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China.
- The Critical Kidney Disease Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Qin Liao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China.
- The Critical Kidney Disease Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China.
- The Critical Kidney Disease Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China.
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12
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Duan S, Chen S, Lu F, Zhou M, Jiang L, Chen C, Geng L, Sun R, Xu Y, Huang Z, Zhang C, Zhang B, Mao H, Xing C, Yuan Y. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D as a predictive biomarker of clinical outcomes in patients with primary membranous nephropathy. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1171216. [PMID: 37181155 PMCID: PMC10167293 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1171216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Primary membranous nephropathy (PMN) is an immune-related disease with increased morbidity and the most common cause of adult nephrotic syndrome (NS). The serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D)], a biomarker of vitamin D (VD) status, tends to decline in patients with kidney disease. However, the relationship between 25(OH)D and PMN is still unclear. Therefore, this study aims to clarify the association between 25(OH)D and disease severity and therapy response of PMN. Methods A total of 490 participants diagnosed with PMN by biopsy from January 2017 to April 2022 were recruited at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University. The correlations between baseline 25(OH)D and manifestations of nephrotic syndrome (NS) or seropositivity of anti-PLA2R Ab were confirmed by univariate and multivariate logistic analyses. Spearman's correlations were used to examine the associations between baseline 25(OH)D and other clinical parameters. In the follow-up cohort, Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to assess remission outcomes among groups with low, medium, and high levels of 25(OH)D. Furthermore, the independent risk factors for non-remission (NR) were explored by COX regression analysis. Results At baseline, 25(OH)D was negatively related to 24-h urinary protein and serum anti-PLA2R Ab. The lower level of baseline 25(OH)D was associated with an increased risk for the incidence of NS in PMN (model 2, OR 6.8, 95% CI 4.4, 10.7, P < 0.001) and seropositivity of anti-PLA2R Ab (model 2, OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.6, 3.7, P < 0.001). Furthermore, the lower level of 25(OH)D during follow-up was demonstrated as an independent risk factor for NR even after adjusting age, gender, MBP, 24 h UP, serum anti-PLA2R Ab, serum albumin, and serum C3 [25(OH)D (39.2-62.3 nmol/L): HR 4.90, 95% CI 1.02, 23.53 P = 0.047; 25(OH)D < 39.2 nmol/L: HR 17.52, 95% CI 4.04, 76.03 P < 0.001); vs. 25(OH)D ≥ 62.3 nmol/L]. The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis also demonstrated that the higher level of follow-up 25(OH)D had a higher possibility of remission than the lower one (log-rank test, P < 0.001). Conclusion Baseline 25(OH)D was significantly correlated with nephrotic proteinuria and seropositivity of anti-PLA2R Ab in PMN. As an independent risk factor for NR, a low level of 25(OH)D during follow-up might serve as a prognostic tool for sensitively identifying cases with a high probability of poor treatment response.
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Hunley TE, Hidalgo G, Ng KH, Shirai Y, Miura K, Beng HM, Wu Q, Hattori M, Smoyer WE. Pioglitazone enhances proteinuria reduction in complicated pediatric nephrotic syndrome. Pediatr Nephrol 2023; 38:1127-1138. [PMID: 35969278 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-022-05637-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a common pediatric kidney disease, yet current treatments for complicated NS are only partially effective and have significant toxicity. There is no Food and Drug Administration (FDA)- or European Medicines Agency (EMA)-approved safe and effective treatment for NS. Thiazolidinediones (TZDs) have been shown to reduce proteinuria in both diabetic and non-diabetic kidney disease and in preclinical studies to directly protect podocytes from injury and reduce proteinuria. Here, we report on the potential utility of the addition of the TZD pioglitazone (PIO) to enhance proteinuria reduction in 8 children and young adults with steroid dependent NS and steroid resistant NS. METHODS Clinical data were analyzed in comparable time periods before and after the addition of PIO to their medical regimens. Eight NS patients with minimal change NS (n = 2), focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) (n = 4), or collapsing FSGS (n = 2) were evaluated. RESULTS Prior to PIO initiation, all children and young adults had already received multiple immunosuppressive medications (mean = 3.75). Five of eight patients (63%; "Responders") had notable proteinuria reduction within 1 month of PIO initiation (62% reduction; P = 0.04) and normalization within 6 months (97% reduction; P = 0.04). PIO-related benefits among the responders included notable increases in serum albumin (2.5 to 3.7 g/dl; P = 0.08), dramatic reductions in hospitalizations for IV albumin infusions and diuresis (11 to 0; P < 0.01), and considerable reduction in total immunosuppression (43% reduction; P > 0.1). Importantly, no patients experienced any adverse events attributable to PIO during a total of 136 patient-months of treatment. CONCLUSIONS While confirmatory safety and efficacy studies are needed, these findings suggest pioglitazone (a non-immunosuppressive drug) may be useful to enhance proteinuria reduction in some children and young adults with complicated NS. A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy E Hunley
- Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Guillermo Hidalgo
- Department of Pediatrics, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
- K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital, HMH School of Medicine, Neptune, NJ, USA
| | - Kar Hui Ng
- Department of Paediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Yoko Shirai
- Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Hostensia M Beng
- Department of Pediatrics, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Qiang Wu
- East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | | | - William E Smoyer
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
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Johnston JG, Welch AK, Cain BD, Sayeski PP, Gumz ML, Wingo CS. Aldosterone: Renal Action and Physiological Effects. Compr Physiol 2023; 13:4409-4491. [PMID: 36994769 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c190043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Aldosterone exerts profound effects on renal and cardiovascular physiology. In the kidney, aldosterone acts to preserve electrolyte and acid-base balance in response to changes in dietary sodium (Na+ ) or potassium (K+ ) intake. These physiological actions, principally through activation of mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs), have important effects particularly in patients with renal and cardiovascular disease as demonstrated by multiple clinical trials. Multiple factors, be they genetic, humoral, dietary, or otherwise, can play a role in influencing the rate of aldosterone synthesis and secretion from the adrenal cortex. Normally, aldosterone secretion and action respond to dietary Na+ intake. In the kidney, the distal nephron and collecting duct are the main targets of aldosterone and MR action, which stimulates Na+ absorption in part via the epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC), the principal channel responsible for the fine-tuning of Na+ balance. Our understanding of the regulatory factors that allow aldosterone, via multiple signaling pathways, to function properly clearly implicates this hormone as central to many pathophysiological effects that become dysfunctional in disease states. Numerous pathologies that affect blood pressure (BP), electrolyte balance, and overall cardiovascular health are due to abnormal secretion of aldosterone, mutations in MR, ENaC, or effectors and modulators of their action. Study of the mechanisms of these pathologies has allowed researchers and clinicians to create novel dietary and pharmacological targets to improve human health. This article covers the regulation of aldosterone synthesis and secretion, receptors, effector molecules, and signaling pathways that modulate its action in the kidney. We also consider the role of aldosterone in disease and the benefit of mineralocorticoid antagonists. © 2023 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 13:4409-4491, 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jermaine G Johnston
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension and Renal Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Nephrology Section, Veteran Administration Medical Center, North Florida/South Georgia Malcom Randall Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Amanda K Welch
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension and Renal Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Nephrology Section, Veteran Administration Medical Center, North Florida/South Georgia Malcom Randall Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Brian D Cain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Peter P Sayeski
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Michelle L Gumz
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension and Renal Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Nephrology Section, Veteran Administration Medical Center, North Florida/South Georgia Malcom Randall Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Charles S Wingo
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension and Renal Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Nephrology Section, Veteran Administration Medical Center, North Florida/South Georgia Malcom Randall Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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15
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Staruschenko A, Ma R, Palygin O, Dryer SE. Ion channels and channelopathies in glomeruli. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:787-854. [PMID: 36007181 PMCID: PMC9662803 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00013.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
An essential step in renal function entails the formation of an ultrafiltrate that is delivered to the renal tubules for subsequent processing. This process, known as glomerular filtration, is controlled by intrinsic regulatory systems and by paracrine, neuronal, and endocrine signals that converge onto glomerular cells. In addition, the characteristics of glomerular fluid flow, such as the glomerular filtration rate and the glomerular filtration fraction, play an important role in determining blood flow to the rest of the kidney. Consequently, disease processes that initially affect glomeruli are the most likely to lead to end-stage kidney failure. The cells that comprise the glomerular filter, especially podocytes and mesangial cells, express many different types of ion channels that regulate intrinsic aspects of cell function and cellular responses to the local environment, such as changes in glomerular capillary pressure. Dysregulation of glomerular ion channels, such as changes in TRPC6, can lead to devastating glomerular diseases, and a number of channels, including TRPC6, TRPC5, and various ionotropic receptors, are promising targets for drug development. This review discusses glomerular structure and glomerular disease processes. It also describes the types of plasma membrane ion channels that have been identified in glomerular cells, the physiological and pathophysiological contexts in which they operate, and the pathways by which they are regulated and dysregulated. The contributions of these channels to glomerular disease processes, such as focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and diabetic nephropathy, as well as the development of drugs that target these channels are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Staruschenko
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
- Hypertension and Kidney Research Center, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
- James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, Tampa, Florida
| | - Rong Ma
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Oleg Palygin
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Stuart E Dryer
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
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16
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Bryant C, Webb A, Banks AS, Chandler D, Govindarajan R, Agrawal S. Alternatively Spliced Landscape of PPARγ mRNA in Podocytes Is Distinct from Adipose Tissue. Cells 2022; 11:cells11213455. [PMID: 36359851 PMCID: PMC9653906 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Podocytes are highly differentiated epithelial cells, and their structural and functional integrity is compromised in a majority of glomerular and renal diseases, leading to proteinuria, chronic kidney disease, and kidney failure. Traditional agonists (e.g., pioglitazone) and selective modulators (e.g., GQ-16) of peroxisome-proliferator-activated-receptor-γ (PPARγ) reduce proteinuria in animal models of glomerular disease and protect podocytes from injury via PPARγ activation. This indicates a pivotal role for PPARγ in maintaining glomerular function through preservation of podocytes distinct from its well-understood role in driving insulin sensitivity and adipogenesis. While its transcriptional role in activating adipokines and adipogenic genes is well-established in adipose tissue, liver and muscle, understanding of podocyte PPARγ signaling remains limited. We performed a comprehensive analysis of PPARγ mRNA variants due to alternative splicing, in human podocytes and compared with adipose tissue. We found that podocytes express the ubiquitous PPARγ Var 1 (encoding γ1) and not Var2 (encoding γ2), which is mostly restricted to adipose tissue and liver. Additionally, we detected expression at very low level of Var4, and barely detectable levels of other variants, Var3, Var11, VartORF4 and Var9, in podocytes. Furthermore, a distinct podocyte vs. adipocyte PPAR-promoter-response-element containing gene expression, enrichment and pathway signature was observed, suggesting differential regulation by podocyte specific PPARγ1 variant, distinct from the adipocyte-specific γ2 variant. In summary, podocytes and glomeruli express several PPARγ variants, including Var1 (γ1) and excluding adipocyte-specific Var2 (γ2), which may have implications in podocyte specific signaling and pathophysiology. This suggests that that new selective PPARγ modulators can be potentially developed that will be able to distinguish between the two forms, γ1 and γ2, thus forming a basis of novel targeted therapeutic avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Bryant
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Amy Webb
- Department of Bioinformatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Alexander S. Banks
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Dawn Chandler
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disease, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Rajgopal Govindarajan
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Translational Therapeutics, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Shipra Agrawal
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
- Correspondence:
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Epoxyeicosatrienoic Acids Inhibit the Activation of Murine Fibroblasts by Blocking the TGF-β1-Smad2/3 Signaling in a PPARγ-Dependent Manner. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:7265486. [PMID: 36275905 PMCID: PMC9584742 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7265486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs), the metabolite of arachidonic acid by cytochrome P450 (CYP), reportedly serve as a vital endogenous protective factor in several chronic diseases. EETs are metabolized by soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH). We have observed that prophylactic blocking sEH alleviates bleomycin- (BLM-) induced pulmonary fibrosis (PF) in mice. However, the underlying mechanism and therapeutic effects of EETs on PF remain elusive. Objective In this study, we investigated the effect of CYP2J2/EETs on the activation of murine fibroblasts and their mechanisms. Results we found that administration of the sEH inhibitor (TPPU) 7 days after the BLM injection also reversed the morphology changes and collagen deposition in the lungs of BLM-treated mice, attenuating PF. Fibroblast activation is regarded as a critical role of PF. Therefore, we investigated the effects of EETs on the proliferation and differentiation of murine fibroblasts. Results showed that the overexpression of CYP2J2 reduced the cell proliferation and the expressions of α-SMA and PCNA induced by transforming growth factor- (TGF-) β1 in murine fibroblasts. Then, we found that EETs inhibited the proliferation and differentiation of TGF-β1-treated-NIH3T3 cells and primary murine fibroblasts. Mechanistically, we found that 14,15-EET disrupted the phosphorylation of Smad2/3 murine fibroblasts by activating PPARγ, which was completely abolished by a PPARγ inhibitor GW9662. Conclusion our study shows that EETs inhibit the activation of murine fibroblasts by blocking the TGF-β1-Smad2/3 signaling in a PPARγ-dependent manner. Regulating CYP2J2-EET-sEH metabolic pathway may be a potential therapeutic option in PF.
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Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gene Knockout Promotes Podocyte Injury in Diabetic Mice. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:9018379. [PMID: 35813229 PMCID: PMC9262558 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9018379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective. To investigate the effects of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPARγ) expression on renal podocyte in diabetic mice by conditionally knockout mouse PPARγ gene. Methods. Wild-type C57BL mice and PPARγ gene knockout mice were used as research objects to establish the diabetic mouse model, which was divided into normal control group (NC group), normal glucose PPARγ gene knockout group (NK group), diabetic wild-type group (DM group), and diabetic PPARγ gene knockout group (DK group), with 8 mice in each group. After 16 weeks, the mice were sacrificed for renal tissue collection. Morphological changes of renal tissue were observed by HE and Masson staining, and ultrastructure of renal tissue was observed by transmission electron microscope. Protein expressions of PPARγ, podocin, nephrin, collagen IV, and fibronectin (FN) in renal tissues were detected by immunohistochemistry and Western blot, and mRNA changes of PPARγ, podocin, and nephrin in renal tissues were detected by qRT-PCR. Results. Compared with the NC group, the protein and mRNA expressions of PPARγ, podocin, and nephrin decreased in the kidney tissue of mice in the DM group, while the protein expressions of collagen IV and FN increased. The expression of various proteins in kidney tissues of the DK group was consistent with that of the DM group, and the difference was more obvious. The expression of PPARγ protein and mRNA decreased in the NK group, while the expression of podocin, nephrin protein and mRNA, collagen IV, and FN protein showed no significant difference. Conclusion. In diabetic renal tissue, the loss of PPARγ can aggravate podocellular damage and thus promote the occurrence of diabetic renal fibrosis. Increasing the expression of PPARγ may effectively relieve renal podocyte impairment in diabetic patients, which can be used for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy.
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Yuan Q, Tang B, Zhang C. Signaling pathways of chronic kidney diseases, implications for therapeutics. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:182. [PMID: 35680856 PMCID: PMC9184651 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01036-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a chronic renal dysfunction syndrome that is characterized by nephron loss, inflammation, myofibroblasts activation, and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. Lipotoxicity and oxidative stress are the driving force for the loss of nephron including tubules, glomerulus, and endothelium. NLRP3 inflammasome signaling, MAPK signaling, PI3K/Akt signaling, and RAAS signaling involves in lipotoxicity. The upregulated Nox expression and the decreased Nrf2 expression result in oxidative stress directly. The injured renal resident cells release proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines to recruit immune cells such as macrophages from bone marrow. NF-κB signaling, NLRP3 inflammasome signaling, JAK-STAT signaling, Toll-like receptor signaling, and cGAS-STING signaling are major signaling pathways that mediate inflammation in inflammatory cells including immune cells and injured renal resident cells. The inflammatory cells produce and secret a great number of profibrotic cytokines such as TGF-β1, Wnt ligands, and angiotensin II. TGF-β signaling, Wnt signaling, RAAS signaling, and Notch signaling evoke the activation of myofibroblasts and promote the generation of ECM. The potential therapies targeted to these signaling pathways are also introduced here. In this review, we update the key signaling pathways of lipotoxicity, oxidative stress, inflammation, and myofibroblasts activation in kidneys with chronic injury, and the targeted drugs based on the latest studies. Unifying these pathways and the targeted therapies will be instrumental to advance further basic and clinical investigation in CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Yuan
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Ben Tang
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Chun Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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20
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COUP-TFII in Kidneys, from Embryos to Sick Adults. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12051181. [PMID: 35626336 PMCID: PMC9139597 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12051181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chicken ovalbumin upstream promoter-transcription factor II (COUP-TFII) is an orphan nuclear hormone receptor of unknown ligands. This molecule has two interesting features: (1) it is a developmental gene, and (2) it is a potential hormone receptor. Here, we describe the possible roles of COUP-TFII in the organogenesis of the kidneys and protection from adult renal diseases, primarily in mouse models. COUP-TFII is highly expressed in embryos, including primordial kidneys, and is essential for the formation of metanephric mesenchyme and the survival of renal precursor cells. Although the expression levels of COUP-TFII are low and its functions are unknown in healthy adults, it serves as a reno-protectant molecule against acute kidney injury. These are good examples of how developmental genes exhibit novel functions in the etiology of adult diseases. We also discuss the ongoing research on the roles of COUP-TFII in podocyte development and diabetic kidney disease. In addition, the identification of potential ligands suggests that COUP-TFII might be a novel therapeutic target for renal diseases in the future.
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21
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Bryant C, Rask G, Waller AP, Webb A, Galdino-Pitta MR, Amato AA, Cianciolo R, Govindarajan R, Becknell B, Kerlin BA, Neves FA, Fornoni A, Agrawal S. Selective modulator of nuclear receptor PPARγ with reduced adipogenic potential ameliorates experimental nephrotic syndrome. iScience 2022; 25:104001. [PMID: 35310946 PMCID: PMC8927998 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Glomerular disease manifests as nephrotic syndrome (NS) with high proteinuria and comorbidities, and is frequently refractory to standard treatments. We hypothesized that a selective modulator of PPARγ, GQ-16, will provide therapeutic advantage over traditional PPARγ agonists for NS treatment. We demonstrate in a pre-clinical NS model that proteinuria is reduced with pioglitazone to 64%, and robustly with GQ-16 to 81% of nephrosis, comparable to controls. Although both GQ-16 and pioglitazone restore glomerular-Nphs1, hepatic-Pcsk9 and serum-cholesterol, only GQ-16 restores glomerular-Nrf2, and reduces hypoalbuminemia and hypercoagulopathy. GQ-16 and pioglitazone restore common and distinct glomerular gene expression analyzed by RNA-seq and induce insulin sensitizing adipokines to various degrees. Pioglitazone but not GQ-16 induces more lipid accumulation and aP2 in adipocytes and white adipose tissue. We conclude that selective modulation of PPARγ by a partial agonist, GQ-16, is more advantageous than pioglitazone in reducing proteinuria, NS associated comorbidities, and adipogenic side effects of full PPARγ agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Bryant
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Galen Rask
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Amanda P. Waller
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Amy Webb
- The Ohio State University, Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Marina R. Galdino-Pitta
- Laboratory of Design and Drug Synthesis, Bioscience Center, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
| | - Angelica A. Amato
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Brasília, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Rachel Cianciolo
- Deptartment of Veterinary Biosciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Rajgopal Govindarajan
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Brian Becknell
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Bryce A. Kerlin
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Francisco A.R. Neves
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Molecular, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Brasília, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Alessia Fornoni
- Katz Family Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Peggy and Harold Katz Drug Discovery Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Shipra Agrawal
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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22
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Liu S, Yuan Y, Xue Y, Xing C, Zhang B. Podocyte Injury in Diabetic Kidney Disease: A Focus on Mitochondrial Dysfunction. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:832887. [PMID: 35321238 PMCID: PMC8935076 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.832887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Podocytes are a crucial cellular component in maintaining the glomerular filtration barrier, and their injury is the major determinant in the development of albuminuria and diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Podocytes are rich in mitochondria and heavily dependent on them for energy to maintain normal functions. Emerging evidence suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction is a key driver in the pathogenesis of podocyte injury in DKD. Impairment of mitochondrial function results in an energy crisis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell death. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in the molecular mechanisms that cause mitochondrial damage and illustrate the impact of mitochondrial injury on podocytes. The related mitochondrial pathways involved in podocyte injury in DKD include mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy, mitochondrial biogenesis, mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and oxidative stress, and mitochondrial protein quality control. Furthermore, we discuss the role of mitochondria-associated membranes (MAMs) formation, which is intimately linked with mitochondrial function in podocytes. Finally, we examine the experimental evidence exploring the targeting of podocyte mitochondrial function for treating DKD and conclude with a discussion of potential directions for future research in the field of mitochondrial dysfunction in podocytes in DKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simeng Liu
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanggang Yuan
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yi Xue
- Suzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Suzhou, China
| | - Changying Xing
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Changying Xing, ; Bo Zhang,
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Nephrology, Pukou Branch of JiangSu Province Hospital (Nanjing Pukou Central Hospital), Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Changying Xing, ; Bo Zhang,
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23
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Pan X. Cholesterol Metabolism in Chronic Kidney Disease: Physiology, Pathologic Mechanisms, and Treatment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1372:119-143. [PMID: 35503178 PMCID: PMC11106795 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-19-0394-6_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
High plasma levels of lipids and/or lipoproteins are risk factors for atherosclerosis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), obesity, and diabetes. These four conditions have also been identified as risk factors leading to the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Although many pathways that generate high plasma levels of these factors have been identified, most clinical and physiologic dysfunction results from aberrant assembly and secretion of lipoproteins. The results of several published studies suggest that elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol are a risk factor for atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, coronary artery calcification associated with type 2 diabetes, and NAFLD. Cholesterol metabolism has also been identified as an important pathway contributing to the development of CKD; clinical treatments designed to alter various steps of the cholesterol synthesis and metabolism pathway are currently under study. Cholesterol synthesis and catabolism contribute to a multistep process with pathways that are regulated at the cellular level in renal tissue. Cholesterol metabolism may also be regulated by the balance between the influx and efflux of cholesterol molecules that are capable of crossing the membrane of renal proximal tubular epithelial cells and podocytes. Cellular accumulation of cholesterol can result in lipotoxicity and ultimately kidney dysfunction and failure. Thus, further research focused on cholesterol metabolism pathways will be necessary to improve our understanding of the impact of cholesterol restriction, which is currently a primary intervention recommended for patients with dyslipidemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyue Pan
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, New York University Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, USA.
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24
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Audzeyenka I, Bierżyńska A, Lay AC. Podocyte Bioenergetics in the Development of Diabetic Nephropathy: The Role of Mitochondria. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6429716. [PMID: 34791124 PMCID: PMC8660556 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the leading cause of kidney failure, with an increasing incidence worldwide. Mitochondrial dysfunction is known to occur in DN and has been implicated in the underlying pathogenesis of disease. These complex organelles have an array of important cellular functions and involvement in signaling pathways, and understanding the intricacies of these responses in health, as well as how they are damaged in disease, is likely to highlight novel therapeutic avenues. A key cell type damaged early in DN is the podocyte, and increasing studies have focused on investigating the role of mitochondria in podocyte injury. This review will summarize what is known about podocyte mitochondrial dynamics in DN, with a particular focus on bioenergetic pathways, highlighting key studies in this field and potential opportunities to target, enhance or protect podocyte mitochondrial function in the treatment of DN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Audzeyenka
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Nephrology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Gdańsk, Poland
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
- Correspondence: Irena Audzeyenka, PhD, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Nephrology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wita Stwosza St. 63, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland.
| | - Agnieszka Bierżyńska
- Bristol Renal, Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Abigail C Lay
- Bristol Renal, Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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25
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Role of Endothelial Glucocorticoid Receptor in the Pathogenesis of Kidney Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413295. [PMID: 34948091 PMCID: PMC8706765 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids, as multifunctional hormones, are widely used in the treatment of various diseases including nephrological disorders. They are known to affect immunological cells, effectively treating many autoimmune and inflammatory processes. Furthermore, there is a growing body of evidence demonstrating the potent role of glucocorticoids in non-immune cells such as podocytes. Moreover, novel data show additional pathways and processes affected by glucocorticoids, such as the Wnt pathway or autophagy. The endothelium is currently considered as a key organ in the regulation of numerous kidney functions such as glomerular filtration, vascular tone and the regulation of inflammation and coagulation. In this review, we analyse the literature concerning the effects of endothelial glucocorticoid receptor signalling on kidney function in health and disease, with special focus on hypertension, diabetic kidney disease, glomerulopathies and chronic kidney disease. Recent studies demonstrate the potential role of endothelial GR in the prevention of fibrosis of kidney tissue and cell metabolism through Wnt pathways, which could have a protective effect against disease progression. Another important aspect covered in this review is blood pressure regulation though GR and eNOS. We also briefly cover potential therapies that might affect the endothelial glucocorticoid receptor and its possible clinical implications, with special interest in selective or local GR stimulation and potential mitigation of GC treatment side effects.
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26
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Wang B, Qian JY, Tang TT, Lin LL, Yu N, Guo HL, Ni WJ, Lv LL, Wen Y, Li ZL, Wu M, Cao JY, Liu BC. VDR/Atg3 Axis Regulates Slit Diaphragm to Tight Junction Transition via p62-Mediated Autophagy Pathway in Diabetic Nephropathy. Diabetes 2021; 70:2639-2651. [PMID: 34376476 DOI: 10.2337/db21-0205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Foot process effacement is an important feature of early diabetic nephropathy (DN), which is closely related to the development of albuminuria. Under certain nephrotic conditions, the integrity and function of the glomerular slit diaphragm (SD) structure were impaired and replaced by the tight junction (TJ) structure, resulting in so-called SD-TJ transition, which could partially explain the effacement of foot processes at the molecular level. However, the mechanism underlying the SD-TJ transition has not been described in DN. Here, we demonstrated that impaired autophagic flux blocked p62-mediated degradation of ZO-1 (TJ protein) and promoted podocytes injury via activation of caspase3 and caspase8. Interestingly, the expression of VDR in podocytes was decreased under diabetes conditions, which impaired autophagic flux through downregulating Atg3. Of note, we also found that VDR abundance was negatively associated with impaired autophagic flux and SD-TJ transition in the glomeruli from human renal biopsy samples with DN. Furthermore, VDR activation improved autophagic flux and attenuated SD-TJ transition in the glomeruli of diabetic animal models. In conclusion, our data provided the novel insight that VDR/Atg3 axis deficiency resulted in SD-TJ transition and foot processes effacement via blocking the p62-mediated autophagy pathway in DN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Wang
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhong Da Hospital, Southeast University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing-Yi Qian
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhong Da Hospital, Southeast University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Tao-Tao Tang
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhong Da Hospital, Southeast University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Li-Lu Lin
- Division of Nephrology, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Nan Yu
- Division of Nephrology, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong-Lei Guo
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei-Jie Ni
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhong Da Hospital, Southeast University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Ling-Li Lv
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhong Da Hospital, Southeast University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yi Wen
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhong Da Hospital, Southeast University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zuo-Lin Li
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhong Da Hospital, Southeast University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Min Wu
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhong Da Hospital, Southeast University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing-Yuan Cao
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhong Da Hospital, Southeast University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Bi-Cheng Liu
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhong Da Hospital, Southeast University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
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27
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Zhao J, Chen J, Li YY, Xia LL, Wu YG. Bruton's tyrosine kinase regulates macrophage‑induced inflammation in the diabetic kidney via NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Int J Mol Med 2021; 48:177. [PMID: 34278465 PMCID: PMC8354311 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2021.5010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been previously reported that macrophages may be involved in diabetic nephropathy (DN) development. Furthermore, Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) may participate in macrophage activation and lead to the release of inflammatory mediators. The main aim of the present study was to analyze the association between renal BTK expression and clinical indicators. Moreover, BTK knockout mice were used to establish a diabetic model for further research. The results demonstrated that BTK was activated in the kidneys of patients with DN and was associated with the progression of proteinuria, creatinine levels, estimated glomerular filtration rate and pathological changes in the kidneys of patients with DN. Furthermore, BTK knockout was observed to reduce urinary protein excretion, alleviate renal injury and decrease renal inflammation in diabetic mice. This protection may be attributed to BTK‑induced suppression of the activation of the Nod‑like receptor (NLR) family pyrin domain containing 3 inflammasome. Collectively, it has been demonstrated in the present study that BTK may be a potential target for DN treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhao
- Department of Nephropathy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230022, P.R. China
| | - Juan Chen
- Department of Nephropathy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230022, P.R. China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Li
- Department of Nephropathy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230022, P.R. China
| | - Ling-Ling Xia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230022, P.R. China
| | - Yong-Gui Wu
- Department of Nephropathy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230022, P.R. China
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28
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Srivastava SP, Zhou H, Setia O, Dardik A, Fernandez‐Hernando C, Goodwin J. Podocyte Glucocorticoid Receptors Are Essential for Glomerular Endothelial Cell Homeostasis in Diabetes Mellitus. J Am Heart Assoc 2021; 10:e019437. [PMID: 34308664 PMCID: PMC8475689 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.019437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Background Proteinuria and glomerular segmental fibrosis are inevitable complications of diabetic nephropathy though their mechanisms are poorly understood. Understanding the clinical characteristics and pathogenesis of proteinuria and glomerular segmental fibrosis in diabetic nephropathy is, therefore, urgently needed for patient management of this severe disease. Methods and Results Diabetes mellitus was induced in podocyte-specific glucocorticoid receptor knockout (GRPKO) mice and control littermates by administration of streptozotocin. Primary podocytes were isolated and subjected to analysis of Wnt signaling and fatty acid metabolism. Conditioned media from primary podocytes was transferred to glomerular endothelial cells. Histologic analysis of kidneys from diabetic GRPKO mice showed worsened fibrosis, increased collagen deposition, and glomerulomegaly indicating severe glomerular fibrosis. Higher expression of transforming growth factor-βR1 and β-catenin and suppressed expression of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A in nephrin-positive cells were found in the kidneys of diabetic GRPKO mice. Podocytes isolated from diabetic GRPKO mice demonstrated significantly higher profibrotic gene expression and suppressed fatty acid oxidation compared with controls. Administration of a Wnt inhibitor significantly improved the fibrotic features in GRPKO mice. The glomerular endothelium of diabetic GRPKO mice demonstrated the features of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Moreover, endothelial cells treated with conditioned media from podocytes lacking GR showed increased expression of α-smooth muscle actin, transforming growth factor-βR1 and β-catenin levels. Conclusions These data demonstrate that loss of podocyte GR leads to upregulation of Wnt signaling and disruption in fatty acid metabolism. Podocyte-endothelial cell crosstalk, mediated through GR, is important for glomerular homeostasis, and its disruption likely contributes to diabetic nephropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swayam Prakash Srivastava
- Department of PediatricsYale University School of MedicineNew HavenCT
- Vascular Biology and Therapeutics ProgramYale University School of MedicineNew HavenCT
| | - Han Zhou
- Department of PediatricsYale University School of MedicineNew HavenCT
- Vascular Biology and Therapeutics ProgramYale University School of MedicineNew HavenCT
| | - Ocean Setia
- Vascular Biology and Therapeutics ProgramYale University School of MedicineNew HavenCT
- Department of SurgeryYale University School of MedicineNew HavenCT
| | - Alan Dardik
- Vascular Biology and Therapeutics ProgramYale University School of MedicineNew HavenCT
- Department of SurgeryYale University School of MedicineNew HavenCT
- Department of SurgeryVA Connecticut Healthcare SystemsWest HavenCT
| | - Carlos Fernandez‐Hernando
- Vascular Biology and Therapeutics ProgramYale University School of MedicineNew HavenCT
- Department of Comparative MedicineYale University School of MedicineNew HavenCT
- Program in Integrative Cell Signaling and Neurobiology of Metabolism (ICSNM)Yale University School of MedicineNew HavenCT
- Department of PathologyYale University School of MedicineNew HavenCT
| | - Julie Goodwin
- Department of PediatricsYale University School of MedicineNew HavenCT
- Vascular Biology and Therapeutics ProgramYale University School of MedicineNew HavenCT
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29
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Serum Retinal and Retinoic Acid Predict the Development of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Korean Subjects with Impaired Fasting Glucose from the KCPS-II Cohort. Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11080510. [PMID: 34436451 PMCID: PMC8398291 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11080510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to investigate whether retinal and retinoic acid (RA), which are newly discovered biomarkers from our previous research, reliably predict type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) development in subjects with impaired fasting glucose (IFG). Among the Korean Cancer Prevention Study (KCPS)-II cohort, subjects were selected and matched by age and sex (IFG-IFG group, n = 100 vs. IFG-DM group, n = 100) for study 1. For real-world validation of two biomarkers (study 2), other participants in the KCPS-II cohort who had IFG at baseline (n = 500) were selected. Targeted LC/MS was used to analyze the baseline serum samples; retinal and RA levels were quantified. In study 1, we revealed that both biomarkers were significantly decreased in the IFG-DM group (retinal, p = 0.017; RA, p < 0.001). The obese subjects in the IFG-DM group showed markedly lower retinal (p = 0.030) and RA (p = 0.003) levels than those in the IFG-IFG group. In study 2, the results for the two metabolites tended to be similar to those of study 1, but no significant difference was observed. Notably, the predictive ability for T2DM was enhanced when the metabolites were added to conventional risk factors for T2DM in both studies (study 1, AUC 0.682 → 0.775; study 2, AUC 0.734 → 0.786). The results suggest that retinal- and RA-related metabolic pathways are altered before the onset of T2DM.
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30
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Korin B, Chung JJ, Avraham S, Shaw AS. Preparation of single-cell suspensions of mouse glomeruli for high-throughput analysis. Nat Protoc 2021; 16:4068-4083. [PMID: 34282333 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-021-00578-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The kidney glomerulus is essential for proper kidney function. Until recently, technical challenges associated with glomerular isolation and subsequent dissolution into single cells have limited the detailed characterization of cells in the glomerulus. Previous techniques of kidney dissociation result in low glomerular cell yield, which limits high-throughput analysis. The ability to efficiently purify glomeruli and digest the tissue into single cells is especially important for single-cell characterization methods. Here, we present a detailed and comprehensive technique for the extraction and preparation of mouse glomerular cells, with high yield and viability. The method includes direct renal perfusion of Dynabeads via the renal artery followed by kidney dissociation and isolation of glomeruli by magnet; these steps provide a high number and purity of isolated glomeruli, which are further dissociated into single cells. The balanced representation of podocytes, mesangial and endothelial cells in single-cell suspensions of mouse glomeruli, and the high cell viability observed, confirm the efficiency of our method. With some practice, the procedure can be done in <3 h (excluding equipment setup and data analysis). This protocol provides a valuable technique for advancing future single-cell-based studies of the glomerulus in health, injury and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Korin
- Department of Research Biology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jun-Jae Chung
- Department of Research Biology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shimrit Avraham
- Department of Research Biology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Andrey S Shaw
- Department of Research Biology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA.
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31
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Wang D, Zhao T, Zhao Y, Yin Y, Huang Y, Cheng Z, Wang B, Liu S, Pan M, Sun D, Wang Z, Zhu G. PPARγ Mediates the Anti-Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Effects of FGF1 ΔHBS in Chronic Kidney Diseases via Inhibition of TGF-β1/SMAD3 Signaling. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:690535. [PMID: 34149434 PMCID: PMC8209477 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.690535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Podocytes are essential components of the glomerular basement membrane. Epithelial-mesenchymal-transition (EMT) in podocytes results in proteinuria. Fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1) protects renal function against diabetic nephropathy (DN). In the present study, we showed that treatment with an FGF1 variant with decreased mitogenic potency (FGF1ΔHBS) inhibited podocyte EMT, depletion, renal fibrosis, and preserved renal function in two nephropathy models. Mechanistic studies revealed that the inhibitory effects of FGF1ΔHBS podocyte EMT were mediated by decreased expression of transforming growth factor β1 via upregulation of PPARγ. FGF1ΔHBS enhanced the interaction between PPARγ and SMAD3 and suppressed SMAD3 nuclei translocation. We found that the anti-EMT activities of FGF1ΔHBS were independent of glucose-lowering effects. These findings expand the potential uses of FGF1ΔHBS in the treatment of diseases associated with EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dezhong Wang
- Institute of Life Sciences and Engineering Laboratory of Zhejiang Province for Pharmaceutical Development of Growth Factors, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China.,The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Tianyang Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yushuo Zhao
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yuan Yin
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yuli Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zizhao Cheng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Beibei Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Sidan Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Minling Pan
- Institute of Life Sciences and Engineering Laboratory of Zhejiang Province for Pharmaceutical Development of Growth Factors, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Difei Sun
- Institute of Life Sciences and Engineering Laboratory of Zhejiang Province for Pharmaceutical Development of Growth Factors, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zengshou Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Guanghui Zhu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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