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Identification of fibroblast activation-related genes in two acute kidney injury models

Weiming Deng1, Xiangling Wei1, Zhanwen Dong1

  • 1Department of Kidney Transplantation, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.

Peerj
|March 29, 2021
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This study identifies key genes like Hnf4α, Pck1, and Timp-1 involved in fibroblast activation during acute kidney injury (AKI). These findings offer potential therapeutic targets for preventing renal fibrosis progression.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genomics

Background:

  • Acute kidney injury (AKI) from ischemia-reperfusion or nephrotoxicity can progress to chronic kidney disease (CKD).
  • Early fibroblast activation is a critical but understudied factor in AKI to CKD transition.
  • This study investigates gene expression changes related to fibroblast activation in AKI models.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify genes and pathways associated with fibroblast activation in AKI.
  • To explore the role of fibroblast activation in the progression from AKI to CKD.
  • To find potential biomarkers for early AKI detection and therapeutic targets.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of microarray expression profiles (GSE62732, GSE121190) to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs).
  • Utilized R software, Gene Ontology (GO), DAVID, KEGG, STRING, and Cytoscape for data analysis and network construction.
  • Validated hub gene expression in a Hypoxia/Reoxygenation (H/R) cell model using qRT-PCR.

Main Results:

  • Identified 457 DEGs, with 215 upregulated and 242 downregulated in injured kidney samples.
  • GO analysis revealed DEGs involved in transport, oxidation-reduction, and metabolic processes.
  • KEGG pathway analysis highlighted enrichment in PI3K-Akt signaling, protein digestion/absorption, and focal adhesion pathways.
  • Validated Hnf4α, Pck1, and Timp1 as hub genes in the H/R model.

Conclusions:

  • Hnf4α, Pck1, and Timp-1 are identified as key players in early fibroblast activation.
  • These genes may serve as novel therapeutic targets for early prediction and treatment of renal fibrosis.
  • Understanding fibroblast activation pathways is crucial for managing AKI progression to CKD.
Keywords:
Acute kidney injuryBioinformatics analysisDifferentially expressed genesHub genesFibroblast activation

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