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Updated: May 17, 2026
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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
Animal models for human polycystic kidney disease
Shizuko Nagao1, Masanori Kugita, Daisuke Yoshihara
1Education and Research Center of Animal Models for Human Diseases, Fujita Health University, 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, Aichi 470-1192, Japan.
Experimental Animals
|October 26, 2012
Summary
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder affecting kidneys and liver. Animal models are crucial for understanding PKD mechanisms and developing treatments.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Genetics
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a hereditary disorder characterized by cyst formation, inflammation, and fibrosis in the kidneys and liver.
- The two main types, autosomal dominant (ADPKD) and autosomal recessive (ARPKD), have varying incidences and onset ages.
- ADPKD affects 1:500-1,000 individuals, with 50% developing end-stage renal disease by age 60, while ARPKD (1:20,000-40,000) is diagnosed early.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying cystogenesis in PKD.
- To explore the efficacy of potential medical treatments for PKD.
- To highlight the importance of animal models in PKD research.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing spontaneous hereditary and gene-engineered animal models of PKD.
- Studying the distribution of gene products in primary cilia and their role in intercellular Ca(2+) signaling.
- Analyzing the involvement of signaling pathways such as MAPK, mTOR, and PPAR-γ in PKD progression.
Main Results:
- Established two types of animal models (spontaneous hereditary and gene-engineered) for PKD research.
- Identified critical roles of signaling pathways (MAPK, mTOR, PPAR-γ) in PKD progression using these models.
- Demonstrated the utility of animal models in studying cystogenesis and treatment efficacy.
Conclusions:
- Experimental animal models are essential for understanding PKD.
- These models facilitate the investigation of molecular mechanisms of PKD onset and progression.
- Animal models are indispensable for evaluating potential therapeutic strategies for PKD.
