Rodent models of AKI-CKD transition

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Translational Medicine
• Animal Models

Background:

• Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a known risk factor for developing chronic kidney disease (CKD).
• The precise mechanisms driving the transition from AKI to CKD are not fully understood.
• Reliable animal models are critical for investigating AKI-CKD pathophysiology and therapeutic development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review commonly utilized rodent models for studying the AKI-CKD transition.
• To discuss the advantages and limitations of each model.
• To provide guidance for selecting appropriate models for AKI-CKD research.

Main Methods:

• Review of established rodent models of AKI-CKD transition.
• Categorization of models based on injury type (e.g., ischemia-reperfusion, toxic insults).
• Analysis of the merits and pitfalls of each model.

Main Results:

• Common models include bilateral and unilateral ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), IRI with contralateral nephrectomy, and repeated exposure to toxins like cisplatin or aristolochic acid.
• Each model presents unique advantages and disadvantages regarding reproducibility, clinical relevance, and mechanistic insights.
• The review synthesizes information on these models to aid researchers.

Conclusions:

• Rodent models are indispensable tools for dissecting the AKI-CKD transition.
• Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different models is crucial for advancing research.
• This review facilitates the selection of clinically relevant models for studying chronic kidney pathologies post-AKI.