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Galectin-3-positive cell infiltration in human diabetic nephropathy
Yuichi Kikuchi1, Shuzo Kobayashi, Noriaki Hemmi
1Second Department of Internal Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa, Saitama, Japan. grd1615@gr.ndmc.ac.jp
Summary
Galectin-3 infiltration in glomeruli is increased in diabetic nephropathy (DMN) and correlates with kidney function decline. This suggests galectin-3 may predict poor DMN prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Immunohistochemistry
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Galectin-3 is implicated in cell proliferation, apoptosis, and adhesion, binding advanced glycation end products.
- Galectin-3 is upregulated in animal models of diabetic nephropathy (DMN) and acute renal failure.
- Galectin-3 expression in human kidney diseases remains understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate galectin-3 expression in human kidney biopsy specimens.
- To determine the role of galectin-3 in various human nephropathies, particularly DMN.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemistry was used to analyze galectin-3 expression.
- Renal biopsy specimens from 37 patients with DMN, IgA nephropathy, crescentic glomerulonephritis, membranous nephropathy, and minimal change nephrotic syndrome were examined.
- Galectin-3-positive cells were identified and quantified, alongside CD68 staining for macrophages.
Main Results:
- In normal kidneys, galectin-3 was in distal tubuli but not glomeruli.
- Galectin-3-positive cell infiltration occurred in glomeruli of 12 patients, significantly higher in DMN.
- Galectin-3-positive cells correlated with urinary protein excretion and renal function decline in DMN patients.
Conclusions:
- Galectin-3-positive cell infiltration is prominent in DMN glomeruli.
- Galectin-3 expression may signify an important role in DMN progression.
- Galectin-3 levels could serve as a predictive marker for poor DMN prognosis.