Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 20, 2025

Assessment of Vascular Function in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease
Published on: June 16, 2014
Reactive Oxygen Species and Redox Signaling in Chronic Kidney Disease
Maria V Irazabal1,2, Vicente E Torres1,2
1Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Abstract:
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains a worldwide public health problem associated with serious complications and increased mortality rates. Accumulating evidence indicates that elevated intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a major role in the pathogenesis of CKD. Increased intracellular levels of ROS can lead to oxidation of lipids, DNA, and proteins, contributing to cellular damage. On the other hand, ROS are also important secondary messengers in cellular signaling. Consequently, normal kidney cell function relies on the "right" amount of ROS. Mitochondria and NADPH oxidases represent major sources of ROS in the kidney, but renal antioxidant systems, such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, or glutathione peroxidase counterbalance ROS-mediated injury. This review discusses the main sources of ROS and antioxidant systems in the kidney, and redox signaling pathways leading to inflammation and fibrosis, which result in abnormal kidney function and CKD progression. We further discuss the important role of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in regulating antioxidant responses, and other mechanisms of redox signaling.
Insights
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) contribute to chronic kidney disease (CKD) pathogenesis. This review explores kidney ROS sources, antioxidant defenses, and redox signaling in CKD progression.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Oxidative Stress Biology
- Molecular Medicine
Background:
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health issue with significant mortality.
- Elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) are implicated in CKD development and progression.
- ROS play a dual role in kidney cells, acting as signaling molecules and causing oxidative damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the primary sources and antioxidant systems of ROS in the kidney.
- To elucidate the role of redox signaling pathways in kidney inflammation and fibrosis.
- To highlight the function of Nrf2 in regulating antioxidant responses in the context of CKD.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on ROS, antioxidant systems, and redox signaling in kidney disease.
- Analysis of the molecular mechanisms linking ROS to cellular damage and signaling.
- Examination of the role of Nrf2 and other redox regulators.
Main Results:
- Mitochondria and NADPH oxidases are key sources of renal ROS.
- Antioxidant systems like superoxide dismutase and catalase counteract ROS-induced injury.
- Redox signaling pathways contribute to inflammation, fibrosis, and CKD progression.
Conclusions:
- Understanding ROS sources and antioxidant systems is crucial for CKD management.
- Targeting redox signaling pathways, including Nrf2 activation, may offer therapeutic strategies for CKD.
- Maintaining redox balance is essential for normal kidney function and preventing CKD.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Kidney Disease I: Introduction
Chronic Kidney Disease III: Interprofessional Care
Chronic Kidney Disease II: Clinical Manifestations
Acute Kidney Injury II: Pathophysiology
Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention
Acute Kidney Injury I: Introduction

