EGFR signaling in renal fibrosis

Shougang Zhuang1, Na Liu2

  • 1Department of Nephrology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine , Shanghai, China ; Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital and Alpert Medical School of Brown University , Providence, Rhode Island, USA.

Insights

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling drives kidney fibrosis. Inhibiting EGFR may offer a new therapeutic strategy for treating kidney disease.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular biology
  • Nephrology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling regulates vital cellular functions.
  • Aberrant EGFR expression is common in cancers, making it an anticancer target.
  • Emerging evidence links EGFR signaling to kidney fibrosis development and progression.

Approach:

  • This review summarizes current research on EGFR signaling in renal fibrogenesis.
  • Mechanisms of EGFR regulation in kidney fibrosis are discussed.
  • The potential of EGFR as an antifibrotic therapeutic target is explored.

Key Points:

  • EGFR signaling plays a significant role in the biological processes underlying renal fibrosis.
  • Animal studies suggest EGFR inhibition could be beneficial.
  • The therapeutic efficacy of EGFR inhibition in human kidney disease remains unevaluated.

Conclusions:

  • EGFR signaling is a critical factor in renal fibrogenesis.
  • Further research is needed to validate EGFR as a therapeutic target for kidney fibrosis in humans.

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