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Published on: November 10, 2021
New therapeutic targets in chronic kidney disease progression and renal fibrosis
Sandra Rayego-Mateos1,2, Jose M Valdivielso1,2
1Red De Investigación Renal (Redinren) , Spain.
Introduction:
The current therapeutic armamentarium to prevent chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression is limited to the control of blood pressure and in diabetic patients, the strict control of glucose levels. Current research is primarily focused on the reduction of inflammation and fibrosis at different levels.
Areas Covered:
This article examines the latest progress in this field and places an emphasis on inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis. New therapeutic targets are described and evidence from experimental and clinical studies is summarized. We performed a search in Medline for articles published over the last 10 years.
Expert Opinion:
The search for therapeutic targets of renal inflammation is hindered by an incomplete understanding of the pathophysiology. The determination of the specific inducers of inflammation in the kidney is an area of heightened potential. Prevention of the progression of renal fibrosis by blocking TGF-β signaling has been unsuccessful, but the investigation of signaling pathways involved in late stages of fibrosis progression could yield improved results. Preventive strategies such as the modification of microbiota-inducers of uremic toxins involved in CKD progression is a promising field because of the interaction between the gut microbiota and the renal system.
Insights
Current treatments for chronic kidney disease (CKD) are limited. New research focuses on reducing inflammation and fibrosis, exploring novel therapeutic targets for better CKD management.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Pharmacology
- Immunology
Background:
- Current therapies for chronic kidney disease (CKD) primarily involve managing blood pressure and glucose levels.
- Research is increasingly focused on mitigating inflammation and fibrosis as key drivers of CKD progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in understanding and targeting renal inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis.
- To identify and summarize evidence for novel therapeutic targets in experimental and clinical studies.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted in Medline for articles published within the last 10 years.
- The review synthesizes findings related to inflammation, oxidative stress, fibrosis, and potential therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Understanding the specific inducers of renal inflammation remains a challenge.
- Targeting TGF-β signaling for fibrosis prevention has shown limited success, but late-stage pathways offer potential.
- Modulating gut microbiota to reduce uremic toxins presents a promising preventive strategy.
Conclusions:
- Novel therapeutic targets for CKD are emerging from research into inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis.
- Further investigation into signaling pathways and the gut-kidney axis is crucial for developing effective CKD treatments.
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