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Nephrotoxin Microinjection in Zebrafish to Model Acute Kidney Injury
Published on: July 17, 2016
Role of microvesicles in acute kidney injury
Abstract:
The main function of microvesicles (MVs) is signaling through specific interactions with target cells and transferring gene products. Therefore, they may participate in physiological and pathological processes. Gaining further insights into the molecular specificity of MVs has allowed identifying the cellular source and may provide new diagnostic tools in the future. Indeed, an increasing body of evidence indicates that MVs may offer prognostic information in various diseases such as chronic inflammation, cardiovascular and renal diseases, pathological pregnancy, tumors, and sepsis. The presence of MVs in body fluids makes them readily accessible. Their number, cellular origin, composition and function can be dependent on the state of the disease. In sepsis for example, activated endothelial cells may shed MVs that might trigger leukocyte and monocyte production and release pro-oxidant and inflammatory mediators. MVs from platelets may trigger disseminated intravascular coagulopathy. MVs are no doubt also involved in modulating immunity and future studies will clarify their functional role in negatively modulating the cell response. In addition, the recognition of the signals delivered by MVs may open new therapeutic strategies. The removal of harmful MVs from plasma may be beneficial in pathological conditions where MVs deliver thrombogenic and inflammatory signals. On the other hand, MVs derived from stem cells may reprogram altered functions in target cells suggesting that they could be exploited in regenerative medicine to repair damaged tissues. We will discuss the role of stem cell-derived MVs in the repair of acute kidney injury.
Insights
Microvesicles (MVs) are key signaling molecules involved in various diseases. Stem cell-derived MVs show promise for regenerative medicine, particularly in repairing acute kidney injury.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
Background:
- Microvesicles (MVs) mediate intercellular communication by transferring genetic material and proteins.
- Their molecular specificity aids in identifying cellular origins and offers potential diagnostic applications.
- MVs are implicated in diverse pathological conditions, including inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and sepsis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the multifaceted roles of microvesicles in physiological and pathological processes.
- To highlight the diagnostic and prognostic potential of MVs in various diseases.
- To discuss the therapeutic applications of stem cell-derived MVs in tissue repair, focusing on acute kidney injury.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and analysis of existing research on microvesicle function and implications.
- Examination of MV involvement in specific diseases like sepsis and their impact on cellular responses.
- Exploration of stem cell-derived MVs for regenerative medicine strategies.
Main Results:
- MVs play significant roles in disease pathogenesis, such as triggering inflammation and disseminated intravascular coagulopathy in sepsis.
- MV characteristics (number, origin, composition) vary with disease state, offering prognostic value.
- Stem cell-derived MVs demonstrate potential in reprogramming cellular functions for therapeutic benefit.
Conclusions:
- Microvesicles are crucial mediators in health and disease, with significant diagnostic and prognostic implications.
- Targeting harmful MVs or utilizing beneficial ones, like those from stem cells, presents novel therapeutic avenues.
- Stem cell-derived MVs hold promise for regenerative medicine, particularly in repairing acute kidney injury.
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Acute Kidney Injury II: Pathophysiology
Acute Kidney Injury I: Introduction
Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention
Acute Kidney Injury V: Interprofessional Care
Acute Kidney Injury III: Clinical Manifestations
Acute Kidney Injury VI: Nursing Management

