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Updated: Aug 16, 2025
Mechanism of Kemeng Fang's Inhibition of Podocyte Apoptosis in Rats with Membranous Nephropathy through the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway
Published on: August 23, 2024
["New antigens" in membranous glomerulonephritis: let's take a closer look]
Mattia Rossi1, Carolina Giannini1, Concetta Gangemi1
1Divisione di Nefrologia, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università di Verona, Verona.
Abstract:
Membranous Nephropathy (MN) is characterized by the presence of subepithelial deposits. MN has been traditionally classified as primary if it is not associated with other pathologies, or secondary if it is associated with autoimmune diseases, infections or malignancies. The identification of target podocyte antigen was a critical point in the understanding of the disease: firstly in 2009 with M-type phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) and then in 2014 with Thrombospondin Type 1 Domain Containing 7A (THSD7A). In the last years using an innovative approach based on laser microdissection and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) has allowed the identification of new target antigen/protein as EXT1/2, NELL-1, NCAM1, SEMA3B, PCHD7, HTRA1, TGFBR3. Some of these proteins have been found in both primary and secondary MN, blurring the line between the two forms. Further studies are necessary to define and understand the clinical features of different antigen associated diseases. The aim of this review is to take a closer look at the new antigens and to evaluate how their discovery can change MN classification.
Insights
New antigens identified in Membranous Nephropathy (MN) challenge traditional classifications. Understanding these new targets, like EXT1/2 and NELL-1, is crucial for redefining MN categories and patient care.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology and immunology research.
- Focuses on glomerular kidney diseases.
- Investigates autoimmune and idiopathic conditions.
Context:
- Membranous Nephropathy (MN) is defined by subepithelial deposits.
- Traditionally classified as primary or secondary MN.
- Key podocyte antigens PLA2R and THSD7A were previously identified.
Purpose:
- To review newly discovered target antigens in MN.
- To evaluate the impact of these discoveries on MN classification.
- To explore the clinical relevance of novel antigen associations.
Summary:
- Innovative techniques identified new MN antigens (EXT1/2, NELL-1, NCAM1, SEMA3B, PCHD7, HTRA1, TGFBR3).
- Some novel antigens are present in both primary and secondary MN, blurring traditional distinctions.
- Further research is needed to understand clinical features of antigen-associated MN.
Impact:
- Advances understanding of Membranous Nephropathy pathogenesis.
- May lead to revised classification of MN subtypes.
- Highlights the potential for targeted diagnostics and therapeutics.
