Multi-Target Modulation of Polyphenols in Diabetic Kidney Disease Therapeutics: A Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Pharmacology
• Diabetology

Background:

• Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a major diabetes complication causing kidney failure.
• Current treatments for DKD, while advanced, often fail to halt disease progression.
• There's a critical need for novel therapies targeting DKD's underlying mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review polyphenol classes with demonstrated nephroprotective effects in DKD.
• To highlight how polyphenols target multiple pathways involved in DKD pathogenesis.
• To explore the potential of polyphenols in integrative DKD management.

Main Methods:

• Literature search conducted from September 2024 to April 2025.
• Focused on studies investigating polyphenol effects in vitro, in vivo, and clinical trials.
• Analyzed interconnected pathways and molecular mediators regulated by polyphenols.

Main Results:

• Polyphenols exhibit nephroprotective properties against DKD.
• These compounds target multiple molecular mediators and pathways crucial to DKD.
• A multi-target approach using polyphenols may improve kidney function.

Conclusions:

• Polyphenols offer a promising therapeutic avenue for DKD.
• Integrating phytomedicine with conventional care could enhance DKD management.
• More clinical trials are essential to validate polyphenol efficacy and safety in DKD.