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Novel targets and new potential: developments in the treatment of inflammation in chronic kidney disease

Csaba P Kovesdy1, Kamyar Kalantar-Zadeh

  • 1Salem VAMC (111D), 1970 Roanoke Blvd., Salem, VA 24153, USA. csaba.kovesdy@va.gov

Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs
|March 28, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Chronic inflammation significantly increases mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD). While no approved anti-inflammatory drugs exist for CKD, research into new therapies is ongoing to improve patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with high mortality, primarily from cardiovascular causes.
  • Traditional risk factors do not fully explain the elevated cardiovascular mortality in CKD patients.
  • Chronic inflammation is an emerging risk factor contributing to increased mortality in CKD.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the role of inflammation in the pathophysiology of CKD.
  • To review current and potential anti-inflammatory pharmacologic therapies for CKD.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review.
  • Incorporation of expert opinion.

Main Results:

  • Inflammation is a prevalent and critical issue in patients with CKD.
  • Currently, no specific anti-inflammatory pharmacologic therapies are approved for CKD treatment.
  • Several anti-inflammatory agents are under investigation in early-phase clinical trials.

Conclusions:

  • Inflammation plays a significant role in CKD progression and outcomes.
  • Future therapeutic strategies may involve targeting chronic inflammation in CKD.
  • Emerging anti-inflammatory agents show promise for future CKD management.
Abstract

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