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Zinc: a potential star for regulating peritoneal fibrosis
Jian Li1, Xinyang Li1, Yangwei Wang1
1Department of Nephrology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
Abstract:
Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a commonly used renal replacement therapy for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). During PD, the peritoneum (PM), a semi-permeable membrane, is exposed to nonbiocompatible PD solutions. Peritonitis can occur, leading to structural and functional PM disorders, resulting in peritoneal fibrosis and ultrafiltration failure, which are important reasons for patients with ESRD to discontinue PD. Increasing evidence suggests that oxidative stress (OS) plays a key role in the pathogenesis of peritoneal fibrosis. Furthermore, zinc deficiency is often present to a certain extent in patients undergoing PD. As an essential trace element, zinc is also an antioxidant, potentially playing an anti-OS role and slowing down peritoneal fibrosis progression. This study summarises and analyses recent research conducted by domestic and foreign scholars on the possible mechanisms through which zinc prevents peritoneal fibrosis.
Insights
Zinc may protect the peritoneum from fibrosis during dialysis. This study reviews how zinc, an antioxidant, might prevent peritoneal fibrosis in end-stage renal disease patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Biochemistry
- Pathology
Background:
- Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a renal replacement therapy for end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
- PD solutions can cause peritoneal membrane (PM) damage, leading to fibrosis and ultrafiltration failure.
- Oxidative stress (OS) is implicated in the progression of peritoneal fibrosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the potential mechanisms by which zinc supplementation may prevent peritoneal fibrosis.
- To review current research on the role of zinc as an antioxidant in PD-related complications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of domestic and international studies.
- Analysis of research on zinc's antioxidant properties and its effect on peritoneal fibrosis.
- Synthesis of evidence regarding zinc's role in preventing PM damage during PD.
Main Results:
- Zinc deficiency is common in PD patients.
- Zinc acts as an antioxidant, potentially mitigating OS-induced PM damage.
- Evidence suggests zinc may slow the progression of peritoneal fibrosis.
Conclusions:
- Zinc's antioxidant properties may offer a protective effect against peritoneal fibrosis in ESRD patients on PD.
- Further research is warranted to confirm zinc's therapeutic potential in preventing PD-related complications.
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