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Updated: Jan 10, 2026

Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Whole Kidney, Medulla, and Cortical Tubules in Diabetic Pathogenesis of Kidney Injury in Mice
Published on: May 2, 2025
Glycosylation-Related Genes and Prognostic Signatures in Diabetic Nephropathy
Xiaohui Li1, Tao Sun2, Xiaoqian Li1
1Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, People's Republic of China.
This study identifies six key glycosylation genes involved in diabetic nephropathy (DN) pathogenesis. Genes like VCAN, GCNT3, and GALNT7 show promise as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for DN.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Genomics
- Immunology
Background:
- Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a leading cause of end-stage renal disease.
- Its development involves immune dysregulation and inflammation.
- Glycosylation is crucial in biological processes and may influence DN.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of glycosylation-related genes in tubulointerstitial immunoinflammatory injury in DN.
- To identify potential diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for DN.
Main Methods:
- Utilized tubulointerstitial transcriptome datasets from DN patients and controls.
- Identified glycosylation-related hub genes using differential expression analysis and machine learning.
- Assessed immune cell infiltration and performed functional enrichment analysis.
Main Results:
- Six glycosylation-related hub genes (HEXB, B4GALT5, GALNT7, GCNT3, CGA, VCAN) were identified.
- These genes are linked to immune cell infiltration and inflammatory processes in DN.
- VCAN, GCNT3, and GALNT7 demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy and prognostic value for DN.
Conclusions:
- Glycosylation-related genes play a significant role in DN pathogenesis via immune and inflammatory pathways.
- VCAN, GCNT3, and GALNT7 are promising novel biomarkers for DN diagnosis and immunotherapeutic targets.
- These findings support the clinical translation of these genes for DN management.
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