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Updated: Jan 30, 2026

Assessment of Vascular Function in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease
Published on: June 16, 2014
microRNAs in chronic kidney disease
Hui Zhao1, Shi-Xing Ma2, You-Quan Shang2
1Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China.
Abstract:
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) results in high morbidity and mortality worldwide causing a huge socioeconomic burden. MicroRNA (miRNA) exert critical regulatory functions by targeting downstream genes and have been associated with many pathophysiologic processes including CKD. In fact, many studies have shown that the expression of various miRNAs was significantly changed in CKD. Current investigations have focused on revealing the relationship between miRNAs and CKD states including diabetic nephropathy, lupus nephritis, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and IgA nephropathy. In this review, we summarize the latest advances elucidating miRNA involvement in the progression of CKD and demonstrate that miRNAs have the potential to be effective biomarkers and therapeutic targets for subsequent treatment.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a key role in chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression. These molecules show potential as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for managing CKD.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Molecular Biology
- Biomarker Discovery
Background:
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD) presents a significant global health challenge, marked by high morbidity, mortality, and socioeconomic impact.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression and are implicated in various pathophysiological processes, including CKD.
- Altered miRNA expression is a documented feature of CKD, prompting research into their specific roles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current research on the involvement of miRNAs in the progression of chronic kidney disease.
- To highlight the potential of miRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers for CKD.
- To explore the therapeutic potential of targeting miRNAs in CKD treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies investigating miRNA involvement in CKD.
- Analysis of research focusing on specific CKD states such as diabetic nephropathy, lupus nephritis, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, and IgA nephropathy.
- Synthesis of findings regarding miRNA expression changes and their functional roles in CKD pathogenesis.
Main Results:
- Numerous studies demonstrate significant alterations in miRNA expression profiles in patients with CKD.
- Specific miRNAs are linked to the progression of various CKD subtypes, including diabetic nephropathy and IgA nephropathy.
- miRNAs are shown to influence key pathophysiological pathways relevant to kidney damage.
Conclusions:
- MicroRNAs are critically involved in the progression of chronic kidney disease.
- miRNAs represent promising candidates for developing novel diagnostic biomarkers for CKD.
- Targeting miRNAs offers a potential therapeutic strategy for the management of chronic kidney disease.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Kidney Disease I: Introduction
Chronic Kidney Disease II: Clinical Manifestations
Chronic Kidney Disease III: Interprofessional Care
Chronic Kidney Disease IV: Nursing Management
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