Programmed Cell Death in Diabetic Kidney Disease: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targeting

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Molecular Biology
• Pathology

Background:

• Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) presents a growing global health challenge with high mortality.
• Programmed cell death (PCD) significantly influences DKD pathogenesis, acting in both homeostatic and pathological capacities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize current knowledge on the role of diverse PCD pathways in DKD.
• To explore the potential of PCD-targeted therapies for DKD treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing evidence on apoptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, necroptosis, and parthanatos in DKD.
• Analysis of gene-regulated signaling pathways involved in PCD-mediated DKD progression.

Main Results:

• Multiple PCD types, including apoptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis, are implicated in DKD progression.
• Emerging evidence suggests complex interactions and crosstalk between different PCD pathways in DKD.
• Recently identified PCD modes like necroptosis and parthanatos require further investigation in the context of DKD.

Conclusions:

• Dissecting the multifaceted roles of PCD in DKD is essential for a deeper mechanistic understanding.
• Targeting PCD pathways holds promise for developing novel therapeutic strategies for DKD.
• Addressing current research limitations, such as unclear PCD interactions and translational gaps, is critical for clinical advancement.