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Updated: Aug 7, 2026

Use of Ultra-high Field MRI in Small Rodent Models of Polycystic Kidney Disease for In Vivo Phenotyping and Drug Monitoring
Published on: June 23, 2015
Diagnosis, pathogenesis, and treatment prospects in cystic kidney disease
Carsten Bergmann1, Valeska Frank, Fabian Küpper
1Department of Human Genetics, Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.
Abstract:
Cystic kidney diseases (CKDs) are a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by progressive fibrocystic renal and hepatobiliary changes. Recent findings have proven the cystogenic process to be compatible with cellular dedifferentiation, i. e. increased apoptosis and proliferation rates, altered protein sorting and secretory characteristics, as well as disorganization of the extracellular matrix. Compelling evidence suggests that cilia play a central pathogenic role and most cystic kidney disorders converge into a common pathogenic pathway. Recently, several promising trials have further extended our understanding of the pathophysiology of CKD and may have the potential for rational personalized therapies in future years. This review aims to summarize the current state of knowledge of the structure and function of proteins underlying polycystic kidney disease, to explore the clinical consequences of changes in respective genes, and to discuss potential therapeutic approaches.
Insights
Cystic kidney diseases (CKDs) involve kidney and liver cysts. Research highlights the role of cilia in CKD development and explores new personalized therapies for these complex genetic disorders.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Genetics
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Cystic kidney diseases (CKDs) are heterogeneous genetic disorders causing progressive renal and hepatobiliary fibrocystic changes.
- The cystogenic process involves cellular dedifferentiation, altered protein handling, and extracellular matrix disorganization.
- Cilia are increasingly recognized as central to the pathogenesis of most CKDs, suggesting a common pathway.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the structure and function of proteins implicated in polycystic kidney disease.
- To explore the clinical impact of genetic variations in these proteins.
- To discuss emerging therapeutic strategies for CKD.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent findings on CKD pathogenesis.
- Analysis of genetic and protein structure-function relationships in polycystic kidney disease.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on therapeutic approaches.
Main Results:
- CKDs share common pathogenic pathways, often involving cilia dysfunction.
- Cellular dedifferentiation, apoptosis, proliferation, and matrix changes are key features.
- Several promising clinical trials offer potential for personalized therapies.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the molecular basis of CKD is crucial for developing targeted treatments.
- Cilia play a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of diverse cystic kidney disorders.
- Future research and clinical trials hold promise for personalized therapeutic interventions in CKD.
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