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Role of immune cells in crystal-induced kidney fibrosis

Ermanila Dhana1, Isis Ludwig-Portugall1, Christian Kurts1

  • 1Institute of Experimental Immunology, University Bonn, Bonn, Germany.

Matrix Biology : Journal of the International Society for Matrix Biology
|December 10, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Kidney fibrosis, a scarring process in chronic kidney disease, is often driven by inflammation. This review explores how immune cells contribute to crystal-induced kidney fibrosis and their potential as therapeutic targets.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Immunology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Chronic kidney diseases can result in kidney fibrosis, characterized by the replacement of functional kidney tissue with scar-like connective tissue.
  • Chronic inflammation is a significant driver of kidney fibrosis.
  • Immune cells and their mediators are increasingly recognized for their roles in fibrosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current knowledge on the involvement of immune cells in crystal-induced renal fibrosis.
  • To highlight potential therapeutic targets within immune cell subsets and their mediators.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of classical and recently discovered immune cell subsets.
  • Analysis of molecular mediators involved in crystal-induced renal fibrosis.
  • Synthesis of current research on immune cell contributions to kidney scarring.

Main Results:

  • Immune cell subsets play a critical role in the development of kidney fibrosis.
  • Specific molecular mediators from immune cells are implicated in the fibrotic process.
  • Understanding these immune mechanisms offers potential avenues for therapeutic intervention.

Conclusions:

  • Immune cells are central players in crystal-induced renal fibrosis.
  • Targeting specific immune pathways may offer novel therapeutic strategies for kidney fibrosis.
  • Further research into immune cell subsets and mediators is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Keywords:
Crystal nephropathyDAMPSInflammationKidney fibrosisNLRP3 inflammasome

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