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Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Whole Kidney, Medulla, and Cortical Tubules in Diabetic Pathogenesis of Kidney Injury in Mice
Published on: May 2, 2025
NOX enzymes and diabetic complications
Tomoko Kakehi1, Chihiro Yabe-Nishimura
1Department of Pharmacology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kawaramachi-Hirokoji, Kamikyoku, Kyoto, Japan.
Abstract:
Several molecular mechanisms have been identified that mediate the tissue-damaging effects of hyperglycemia. These are increased flux through the polyol and hexosamine pathways, increased formation of advanced glycation end products, activation of protein kinase C, and augmented generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Increased production of ROS not only causes cellular damage but also activates the signal transduction cascade that activates specific target genes. Based on recent experimental data, it is now accepted that increased NADPH oxidase activity in tissues vulnerable to hyperglycemia takes place downstream of the advanced glycation end products and protein kinase C pathways, two of the primary mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of diabetic complications. Thus, compounds that suppress NADPH oxidase activity may offer therapeutic benefits to ameliorate diabetic complications, highlighting the significance of NADPH oxidase as a new therapeutic target.
Insights
High blood sugar damages tissues through several pathways, including increased reactive oxygen species (ROS). Suppressing NADPH oxidase, which generates ROS downstream of key pathways, may treat diabetic complications.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Hyperglycemia triggers multiple molecular mechanisms leading to tissue damage.
- Key pathways include the polyol and hexosamine pathways, advanced glycation end product formation, protein kinase C activation, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the role of NADPH oxidase in hyperglycemia-induced tissue damage.
- To identify NADPH oxidase as a potential therapeutic target for diabetic complications.
Main Methods:
- Review of experimental data on molecular mechanisms of hyperglycemia.
- Analysis of the signaling cascade involving ROS and NADPH oxidase.
Main Results:
- Increased ROS production contributes to cellular damage and activates specific gene expression.
- NADPH oxidase activity is upregulated downstream of advanced glycation end products and protein kinase C pathways in hyperglycemia-vulnerable tissues.
Conclusions:
- NADPH oxidase plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of diabetic complications.
- Inhibiting NADPH oxidase activity presents a promising therapeutic strategy for ameliorating diabetic complications.
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