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Epigenetics of kidney disease
Nicola Wanner1,2,3, Wibke Bechtel-Walz4,5
1Department of Medicine IV, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany. nicola.wanner@uniklinik-freiburg.de.
Cell and Tissue Research
|March 14, 2017
Summary
Epigenetic modifications like DNA methylation and histone changes impact kidney disease development and progression. Understanding these epigenetic alterations offers potential for new biomarkers and treatments for chronic kidney disease.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Epigenetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Renal programming and disease progression are influenced by DNA methylation and histone modifications.
- Environmental factors alter the renal cell epigenome, impacting kidney disease pathophysiology.
- Epigenetic mechanisms are crucial in understanding the development and advancement of renal conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on the implications of epigenetic modifications in renal disease.
- To explore the role of epigenetics from early development through chronic kidney disease progression.
- To discuss the translational potential of epigenetic biomarkers and therapies for kidney disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on epigenetic modifications in renal disease.
- Analysis of studies on renal fibrosis, diabetic nephropathy, and chronic kidney disease.
- Examination of research on biomarkers and therapeutic strategies related to epigenetics in kidney disease.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic alterations are key drivers in the development and progression of various renal diseases.
- Specific epigenetic changes are implicated in renal fibrosis and diabetic nephropathy.
- The review highlights the potential for epigenetic insights to inform biomarker discovery and treatment development.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic modifications play a significant role throughout the spectrum of renal disease.
- Targeting epigenetic pathways presents a promising avenue for preventing and treating chronic and end-stage kidney disease.
- Further research into renal epigenetics can lead to novel diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
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