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Updated: Jul 30, 2025

Assessment of Kidney Function in Mouse Models of Glomerular Disease
Published on: June 30, 2018
Translation Animal Models of Diabetic Kidney Disease: Biochemical and Histological Phenotypes, Advantages and
Wenting Luo1, Shiyun Tang2, Xiang Xiao1
1School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan Province, People's Republic of China.
Abstract:
Animal models play a crucial role in studying the pathogenesis of diseases, developing new drugs, identifying disease risk markers, and improving means of prevention and treatment. However, modeling diabetic kidney disease (DKD) has posed a challenge for scientists. Although numerous models have been successfully developed, none of them can encompass all the key characteristics of human DKD. It is essential to choose the appropriate model according to the research needs, as different models develop different phenotypes and have their limitations. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of biochemical and histological phenotypes, modeling mechanisms, advantages and limitations of DKD animal models, in order to update relevant model information and provide insights and references for generating or selecting the appropriate animal models to fit different experimental needs.
Insights
Developing animal models for diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is challenging. This review details current DKD models, their phenotypes, and limitations to guide researchers in selecting appropriate models for their specific needs.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Translational Medicine
- Animal Modeling
Background:
- Animal models are vital for disease research, drug development, and prevention strategies.
- Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) presents unique modeling challenges, with no single model fully recapitulating human disease characteristics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of existing animal models for diabetic kidney disease (DKD).
- To analyze the biochemical and histological phenotypes, modeling mechanisms, advantages, and limitations of various DKD models.
- To offer guidance for selecting appropriate animal models based on specific research objectives.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of established animal models for diabetic kidney disease.
- Comparative analysis of phenotypic characteristics (biochemical and histological).
- Evaluation of modeling mechanisms, advantages, and limitations for each model type.
Main Results:
- Existing DKD animal models exhibit diverse phenotypes and possess inherent limitations.
- No single animal model perfectly replicates all aspects of human DKD.
- Model selection requires careful consideration of research goals and desired disease manifestations.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the specific strengths and weaknesses of each DKD animal model is crucial for effective research.
- The choice of model significantly impacts the relevance and applicability of study findings.
- This review serves as a resource for researchers to make informed decisions when selecting or developing DKD animal models.

