Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 1, 2026
Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Whole Kidney, Medulla, and Cortical Tubules in Diabetic Pathogenesis of Kidney Injury in Mice
Published on: May 2, 2025
The kallikrein-kinin system in diabetic kidney disease
Wenjuan Liu1, Robert C Stanton, Zhaoyun Zhang
1aDivision of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China bRenal Division, Joslin Diabetes Center, One Joslin Place, Boston, Massachusetts, USA cInstitute of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
Purpose Of Review:
Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is one of the most common complications in diabetes mellitus and accounts for a large proportion of clinical nephrology practice. Studies have shown that the kallikrein-kinin system (KKS) may be involved in several pathogenic mechanisms that contribute to DKD, including oxidative stress, inflammatory cytokines, and profibrotic autacoids. This review focuses on recent research advance on the potential role of the KKS in the development of DKD and its clinical relevance.
Recent Findings:
A number of recent studies support the idea that there is a protective role of the KKS in diabetes. For example, agents that activate the KKS have shown strong renal protective effects that might highlight its potential to change the clinical practice. In addition, diabetic mice lacking both bradykinin B2 and B1 receptors have worse kidney lesions as compared with wild-type diabetic mice.
Summary:
Current basic research has demonstrated that pharmacological activation of the KKS improves renal outcomes in diabetes. These findings suggest that this system may be a therapeutic target in preventing and treating DKD.
Related Concept Videos
01:13Introduction to Urinary System
The kidneys are bean-shaped organs located in the retroperitoneal space, on either side of the vertebral column, between the T12 and L3 vertebrae. They are partially protected by the rib cage and surrounded by perirenal fat, which provides cushioning. They are responsible for urine formation and play critical roles in regulating blood pressure, electrolyte levels, and hormone production. The ureters...
01:29Acute Kidney Injury II: Pathophysiology
01:25Chronic Kidney Disease I: Introduction
01:28Chronic Kidney Disease III: Interprofessional Care
01:24Chronic Kidney Disease II: Clinical Manifestations
01:18Blood and Nerve Supply to the Kidney
Bloody Supply to the Kidneys:
The kidneys receive their blood supply from the renal arteries, which branch off from the abdominal aorta—the main artery supplying the abdomen and lower body. The renal arteries enter the kidneys at the hilum, a notch on the medial side of...