Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Isolation of Primary Human Proximal Tubule Epithelial Cells and Their Use in Creating a Microphysiological Model of the Renal Proximal Tubule
Published on: May 9, 2025
Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells as Central Hubs of Kidney Disease
Charlotte Delrue1, Matthijs Oyaert2, Eric Hoste3,4,5
1Department of Nephrology, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
Abstract:
Renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) are increasingly recognized as key players in kidney diseases. They integrate metabolic, inflammatory, and fibrotic signals. This article reviews new data suggesting that RTECs could function as central integrators within diagnostic networks, linking cellular stress responses to detectable blood and urine biomarkers. We discuss the latest advances in multi-omics, extracellular vesicles, and single-cell technologies that enable precise identification of RTEC states. Finally, we discuss the potential of RTEC-centric diagnostics and highlight current limitations in early disease recognition, stratification, and the development of personalized therapeutic interventions.
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