Renoprotective approaches against anthracycline nephrotoxicity

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Oncology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Chemotherapies, including doxorubicin (DOX), are crucial for cancer treatment but can cause significant kidney damage (nephrotoxicity).
• Kidney damage from chemotherapy can manifest as acute kidney injury (AKI) and progress to chronic kidney disease (CKD).
• Doxorubicin-induced nephrotoxicity involves complex mechanisms including oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, impairing renal function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the mechanisms of doxorubicin-induced nephrotoxicity.
• To highlight the need for nephroprotective strategies in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
• To discuss emerging therapies aimed at mitigating DOX-related kidney damage.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on doxorubicin nephrotoxicity.
• Analysis of mechanisms including oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis.
• Evaluation of current and investigational nephroprotective agents and natural compounds.

Main Results:

• Doxorubicin damages the kidneys through multifactorial pathways, affecting renal vasculature and nephron structures.
• Existing evidence points to oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis as key contributors to DOX-induced kidney injury.
• Various natural compounds and pharmacological agents show promise in preclinical studies for protecting against DOX nephrotoxicity.

Conclusions:

• Doxorubicin-induced nephrotoxicity is a serious clinical concern that necessitates effective management strategies.
• Targeting oxidative and inflammatory pathways offers a promising approach for developing nephroprotective therapies.
• Further research into these strategies is crucial for preserving renal function and enhancing the safety of doxorubicin-based chemotherapy.