The Han:SPRD Rat: A Preclinical Model of Polycystic Kidney Disease

Ioannis Kofotolios1,2, Michael J Bonios3, Markos Adamopoulos2

  • 1Clinic of Nephrology and Renal Tranplantation, Laiko Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece.

Biomedicines
|February 24, 2024
PubMed

Insights

The Han:SPRD rat model, with an AnkS6 mutation, mimics human Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD). This model is crucial for understanding ADPKD pathogenesis and testing new therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Genetics
  • Animal Models

Background:

  • Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) is the most common inherited kidney disease, often leading to kidney failure.
  • Animal models are vital for studying ADPKD mechanisms and developing treatments.
  • The Han:SPRD rat harbors an AnkS6 gene mutation, causing polycystic kidneys.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the utility of the Han:SPRD rat model for Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) research.
  • To highlight the phenotypic parallels between the Han:SPRD rat and human ADPKD.
  • To emphasize the model's significance in preclinical studies and therapeutic development.

Main Methods:

  • Characterization of the Han:SPRD rat model with an R823W mutation in the AnkS6 gene.
  • Analysis of cyst formation and kidney enlargement in the rat model.
  • Investigation of the mutated protein, Samcystin, in renal tubular epithelial cells and cilia.

Main Results:

  • The Han:SPRD rat exhibits kidney enlargement and cyst formation, mirroring human ADPKD.
  • The mutated Samcystin protein localizes to cilia and is implicated in cystogenesis.
  • Homozygous AnkS6 mutation results in end-stage renal disease and mortality.

Conclusions:

  • The Han:SPRD rat is a valuable preclinical model for Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD).
  • This model aids in elucidating ADPKD pathogenesis and evaluating novel therapeutic strategies.
  • Further research using this model can accelerate the development of effective ADPKD treatments.