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Rodent Models of D-Galactose Induction of Accelerated Aging: A Platform for Exploring Kidney Aging Mechanisms and
Shaona Niu1, Ryan S Azzouz1, Liang-Jun Yan1
1Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UNT System College of Pharmacy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA.
Abstract:
Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that kidney aging is a risk factor for acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of kidney aging is key to designing novel anti-kidney aging strategies. In this regard, animal models of kidney aging are essential tools. In this review article, we focus on D-galactose (D-gal)-induced accelerated aging in rodents. This animal aging model is a popular and widely used experimental method in the field of aging and aging-related degenerative disorders. It has been shown that the major characteristics of the D-gal-induced aging process are increased oxidative stress, decreased antioxidant enzymes, elevated cell death, increased tissue fibrosis, and accumulation of inflammatory mediators. This review focuses on D-gal-induced kidney aging in mice and rats, with discussions on both kidney aging mechanisms and anti-kidney aging regimens using this model. It is our belief that D-gal induction of accelerated kidney aging will continue to be used as a convenient platform for elucidating kidney aging mechanisms and exploring novel anti-kidney aging targets that may slow down kidney aging and retard the development of aging-related renal disorders.
Insights
Accelerated kidney aging in rodents, induced by D-galactose, mimics key aging hallmarks like oxidative stress and fibrosis. This model aids in understanding kidney aging and testing interventions for age-related kidney diseases.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Gerontology
- Biomedical Research
Background:
- Kidney aging is a significant risk factor for acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD).
- Understanding kidney aging mechanisms is crucial for developing effective anti-aging strategies.
- Animal models are vital for studying kidney aging processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the D-galactose (D-gal)-induced rodent model of accelerated kidney aging.
- To discuss the mechanisms underlying D-gal-induced kidney aging.
- To explore anti-kidney aging strategies using this model.
Main Methods:
- Focus on D-galactose administration in rodents (mice and rats) to induce accelerated aging.
- Review of existing literature on D-gal-induced kidney aging characteristics.
- Analysis of studies investigating interventions in this model.
Main Results:
- D-gal-induced aging in rodents exhibits increased oxidative stress, reduced antioxidant enzymes, elevated cell death, fibrosis, and inflammation.
- This model effectively recapitulates key features of kidney aging.
- Various anti-aging regimens have been explored in this model.
Conclusions:
- The D-gal-induced rodent model is a valuable tool for studying kidney aging mechanisms.
- This model facilitates the exploration of novel therapeutic targets to slow kidney aging.
- It aids in retarding the progression of aging-related renal disorders.
