PKD1 mutation perturbs morphogenesis in tubular epithelial organoids derived from human pluripotent stem cells

Alexandru Scarlat1, Piera Trionfini1, Paola Rizzo1

  • 1Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Centro Anna Maria Astori, Science and Technology Park Kilometro Rosso, Bergamo, Italy.

Scientific Reports
|March 27, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Researchers developed a new organoid model for Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). This model effectively replicates early cyst formation and primary cilia defects, offering a promising avenue for novel therapeutic development.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Stem Cell Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most prevalent inherited renal disorder.
  • Mutations in the PKD1 gene are the primary cause of ADPKD, leading to renal cyst formation and eventual end-stage renal failure.
  • Current therapeutic options for ADPKD are limited, highlighting the need for advanced disease models.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop an efficient method for generating human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived organoids that model ADPKD.
  • To investigate the early cystogenesis and associated cellular defects in ADPKD using these novel organoids.
  • To establish a platform for screening potential therapeutic interventions for ADPKD.

Main Methods:

  • Generation of hiPSC-derived kidney organoids.
  • Utilizing CRISPR/Cas9 technology to create PKD1-null organoids.
  • Characterization of organoid structure, tubule polarization, and primary cilia function.

Main Results:

  • The developed organoids successfully formed polarized, ciliated epithelial tubules.
  • PKD1-null organoids exhibited spontaneous development of dilated tubules, mimicking early ADPKD cystogenesis.
  • Defects in primary cilia were observed in dilated tubules of PKD1-null organoids.

Conclusions:

  • The novel hiPSC-derived organoid model efficiently recapitulates key features of early ADPKD.
  • This model provides a valuable tool for studying ADPKD pathogenesis, particularly cystogenesis and cilia dysfunction.
  • The model holds potential for the development and testing of innovative ADPKD therapies.

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