Circadian glomerular function: from physiology to molecular and therapeutical aspects

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Chronobiology
• Physiology

Background:

• Life exhibits inherent rhythms, notably the day/night cycle, influencing biological processes.
• The kidney plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis, regulating fluid and electrolyte balance, blood pressure, waste excretion, and hormone production.
• Renal function, comprising filtration, reabsorption, and secretion, undergoes dynamic changes over a 24-hour period.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review circadian variations in kidney function.
• To specifically examine the impact of circadian rhythms on glomerular function and proteinuria.
• To emphasize the role of the internal biological clock in regulating these renal processes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating circadian rhythms and kidney function.
• Analysis of research focusing on glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and proteinuria over 24 hours.
• Synthesis of evidence highlighting the molecular clock's influence on renal physiology.

Main Results:

• Glomerular filtration rate exhibits significant diurnal variations.
• Proteinuria levels also display circadian fluctuations, often increasing during specific periods of the day.
• The molecular clock mechanisms are integral to the regulation of these daily changes in kidney function.

Conclusions:

• Circadian rhythms significantly influence key aspects of renal physiology, including glomerular function and proteinuria.
• Understanding these daily rhythms is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of kidney health and disease.
• The internal biological clock plays a critical role in orchestrating the kidney's 24-hour functional cycle.