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Published on: November 10, 2021
Klotho/FGF23 Axis in CKD
Ken Tsuchiya1, Nobuo Nagano, Kosaku Nitta
1Department of Medicine IV, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan.
Insights
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) mineral and bone disorder (MBD) involves Klotho and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23). Understanding their roles in CKD-MBD is crucial for clinical practice and patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Endocrinology
- Bone Metabolism
Background:
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is linked to mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD), characterized by bone abnormalities, altered serum parameters, and vascular calcification.
- Klotho, an aging-related protein, and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), a bone-derived factor, are implicated in CKD-MBD pathophysiology.
- The interplay between Klotho and FGF23 in kidney function and mineral homeostasis is increasingly recognized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the pathophysiology of Klotho and FGF23 in the context of CKD-MBD.
- To highlight the emerging roles of Klotho and FGF23 as potential surrogate markers in CKD.
- To discuss the clinical implications of understanding these factors in CKD management.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on Klotho, FGF23, and CKD-MBD.
- Analysis of the functional relationship between Klotho and FGF23 in renal phosphate and vitamin D regulation.
- Examination of clinical data regarding blood Klotho and FGF23 levels in CKD patients.
Main Results:
- Klotho acts as a cofactor for FGF23, mediating its effects on phosphate and vitamin D metabolism in the kidney.
- Elevated blood levels of Klotho and FGF23 are observed early in CKD progression.
- These elevated levels are associated with patient life expectancy, suggesting their utility as surrogate markers.
Conclusions:
- Klotho and FGF23 play significant roles in the pathogenesis of CKD-MBD.
- Their levels serve as important indicators in early CKD stages and may predict patient outcomes.
- Further research into Klotho and FGF23 is essential for advancing clinical practice in managing CKD-MBD.
Abstract:
The sequential bone disorders, serum parameter abnormalities and vascular calcification that are associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have come to be generally known as CKD-mineral bone disorder (MBD). Klotho, a causative protein of aging, and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), a bone-derived phosphaturic factor, have been reported to be involved in CKD-MBD, and their relationship to the pathophysiology of this disease is gradually being elucidated. Klotho functions as a cofactor of FGF receptors and has been reported to cause FGF23 action and specificity in the kidney. In addition, the presence of secreted Klotho in membrane protein fractions has been determined, and its specific actions are now garnering attention. FGF23, in cooperation with Klotho, inhibits phosphate reabsorption and vitamin D production at the kidney. Blood Klotho and FGF23 levels have been reported to increase beginning at the early stages of CKD, and these factors are receiving attention as new surrogate markers that are reported to be related to life expectancy. In this chapter, we summarize and outline the pathophysiology of Klotho and FGF23 in CKD-MBD as well as important points that are starting to influence clinical practice.
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