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Epigenetics of progression of chronic kidney disease: fact or fantasy?

Maria R Wing1, Ali Ramezani, Harindarpal S Gill

  • 1Division of Renal Disease and Hypertension, The George Washington University, Washington, DC.

Seminars in Nephrology
|September 10, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Epigenetic modifications regulate kidney cell function and development. Aberrant epigenetic changes can cause chronic kidney disease (CKD) by promoting renal fibrosis, but these changes may be reversible therapeutic targets.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Nephrology
  • Epigenetics

Background:

  • Epigenetic modifications are crucial for cellular function, regulating gene expression.
  • Aberrant epigenetic changes, including DNA methylation and microRNA expression, are implicated in kidney disease development.
  • Chronic kidney disease (CKD) involves complex molecular pathways influenced by epigenetic factors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of epigenetic modifications in the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
  • To discuss the mechanisms by which epigenetic changes contribute to renal fibrosis.
  • To highlight the potential of epigenetic modifications as therapeutic targets for CKD.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on epigenetics and kidney disease.
  • Analysis of epigenetic mechanisms involved in cellular signaling pathways.
  • Discussion of methods for studying epigenetic modifications in renal tissues.

Main Results:

  • Epigenetic modifications modulate key pathways in CKD, including TGF-β signaling and inflammation.
  • Aberrant epigenetic changes promote epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and renal fibrosis.
  • Identification of specific epigenetic alterations linked to CKD progression.

Conclusions:

  • Epigenetic modifications play a significant role in the development and progression of CKD.
  • Targeting reversible epigenetic changes offers a promising therapeutic strategy for preventing renal fibrosis and CKD.
  • Further research into epigenetic mechanisms is essential for developing novel CKD treatments.
Keywords:
DNA methylationEMTchronic kidney disease (CKD)microRNAsrenal fibrosis

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