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Role and regulation of apoptotic cell death in the kidney. Y2K update
1Division of Nephrology. Fundacion Jimenez Diaz, Madrid, Spain. aortiz@fjd.es
Abstract:
Apoptosis is an active form of cell death that, in balance with mitosis, regulates cell number. Cell number abnormalities are a frequent feature of renal disease. We now review current concepts on the molecular regulation of apoptotic cell death, including the influence of survival and lethal factors from the extracellular microenvironment as well as the role of intracellular regulators of apoptosis, such as death receptors, proapoptotic and antiapoptotic bcl2-related proteins, the mitochondria and caspases. In addition the role of apoptosis in the genesis, persistence and progression and remodeling and resolution of renal injury is discussed. Information on the expression and function of apoptosis regulatory proteins in specific renal syndromes is summarized. Finally, future perspectives in research and clinical intervention are discussed.
Insights
Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is crucial for regulating cell numbers and is implicated in renal diseases. Understanding its molecular regulators offers insights into kidney injury and potential treatments.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Apoptosis balances mitosis to control cell number, essential for tissue homeostasis.
- Abnormalities in cell number are common in various renal diseases.
- The molecular mechanisms of apoptosis are complex, involving extracellular and intracellular factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current concepts on the molecular regulation of apoptotic cell death.
- To discuss the role of apoptosis in the development and resolution of renal injury.
- To summarize the expression and function of apoptosis regulatory proteins in renal syndromes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current concepts in apoptosis.
- Analysis of the influence of extracellular survival and lethal factors.
- Examination of intracellular regulators including death receptors, Bcl-2 family proteins, mitochondria, and caspases.
Main Results:
- Apoptosis is regulated by a network of extracellular signals and intracellular proteins.
- Specific apoptosis regulatory proteins are expressed and functional in various renal syndromes.
- Apoptosis plays a significant role in the pathogenesis, progression, and resolution of renal injury.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive understanding of apoptosis molecular regulation is vital for nephrology.
- Targeting apoptosis pathways presents potential therapeutic strategies for renal diseases.
- Further research into apoptosis regulatory proteins in renal syndromes is warranted for clinical intervention.