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The osteoprotegerin/tumor necrosis factor related apoptosis-inducing ligand axis in the kidney

Riccardo Candido1

  • 1Diabetes Centre, A.S.S. 1 Triestina, Trieste, Italy.

Current Opinion in Nephrology and Hypertension
|November 20, 2013
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

The OPG/TRAIL axis is crucial in kidney diseases, especially diabetic nephropathy. Elevated levels of TRAIL and OPG in serum and kidneys contribute to renal damage, suggesting therapeutic potential.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Nephrology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • The Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) pathway involves receptors TRAIL-R1/R2 and decoy receptors TRAIL-R3/R4 and osteoprotegerin (OPG).
  • Both TRAIL and OPG are expressed in renal cells.
  • The OPG/TRAIL axis is implicated in kidney damage, particularly diabetic nephropathy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of the OPG/TRAIL axis in the pathogenesis of kidney diseases.
  • To explore the association between TRAIL, OPG, and diabetic nephropathy.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on TRAIL and OPG in renal disease.
  • Analysis of serum and renal tissue expression levels.
  • Investigation of cellular responses in high-glucose environments.

Main Results:

  • Serum TRAIL and OPG levels are elevated and correlated in kidney disease patients.
  • Renal expression of TRAIL and OPG is increased in diabetic nephropathy.
  • High glucose sensitizes tubular cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis, while OPG provides protection.

Conclusions:

  • The OPG/TRAIL axis plays a significant role in kidney disease pathogenesis, notably diabetic nephropathy.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the OPG/TRAIL axis in the kidney.
  • This axis represents a potential therapeutic target for managing renal damage.

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