Oxidative Stress in Maternal and Offspring Kidney Disease and Hypertension: A Life-Course Perspective

Kidney disease and hypertension are interconnected, prevalent conditions that affect both pregnant women and children. Oxidative stress occurs when reactive oxygen species or reactive nitrogen species exceed the capacity of antioxidant systems. It plays a critical role in kidney development, resulting in kidney programming and increased risks for kidney disease and hypertension across the life course. Animal models have significantly advanced our understanding of oxidative stress-related kidney programming, the molecular mechanisms involved, and early-life antioxidant interventions to prevent kidney disease. This review critically examines the influence of perinatal oxidative stress on kidney development, highlighting its long-term effects on kidney outcomes and susceptibility to hypertension. It also explores the potential of antioxidant-based interventions in preventing kidney disease and hypertension. Furthermore, the review addresses the existing gap between insights gained from animal models and their translation into clinical practices, emphasizing the challenges and opportunities for future research in this area.