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[Role of apoptosis in renal injury]
H Sugiyama1, N Kashihara, H Makino
1Third Department of Internal Medicine, Okayama University Medical School.
Abstract:
Nephrologists are now investigating the involvement of apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in various renal diseases. Evidence suggests that abnormalities of apoptosis may contribute to the development of glomerular and tubular diseases. In tissue remodeling after glomerular injuries, excess apoptosis may be associated with cell deletion of glomerular sclerosis. Increased apoptosis may mediate the resolution of glomerular hypercellularity in experimental mesangial proliferation. Reactive oxygen species, deprivation of growth factors, anti-Thy 1 monoclonal antibodies and anti-Fas antibodies are capable of inducing apoptosis in cultured mesangial cells. In renal tubular diseases, apoptosis may be associated with tubular atrophy after ureteral obstruction, tubular damage after ischemia-reperfusion or toxic drugs, and the development of polycystic kidney disease. Infiltrative leukocytes in the glomerulus and renal interstitium undergo apoptosis during inflammation. Thus, apoptosis appears to play a significant role in many renal diseases, and we should consider the regulation of apoptosis in the treatment of these disorders.
Insights
Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is implicated in kidney diseases. Regulating apoptosis could be key for treating renal disorders like glomerular and tubular diseases.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Cell Biology
Context:
- Apoptosis (programmed cell death) is increasingly recognized in renal pathology.
- Abnormal apoptosis contributes to glomerular and tubular kidney diseases.
Purpose:
- To review the role of apoptosis in various renal diseases.
- To highlight the significance of apoptosis regulation in kidney disease treatment.
Summary:
- Excess apoptosis can cause glomerular sclerosis, while increased apoptosis resolves mesangial hypercellularity.
- Apoptosis is linked to tubular atrophy, damage from ischemia-reperfusion or toxins, and polycystic kidney disease.
- Leukocyte apoptosis occurs during renal inflammation, indicating its broad involvement.
Impact:
- Understanding apoptosis mechanisms is crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies for kidney diseases.
- Targeting apoptosis offers potential for managing conditions like glomerular sclerosis and tubular damage.
Related Concept Videos
Apoptosis
Acute Kidney Injury I: Introduction
Acute Kidney Injury II: Pathophysiology
Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention
Acute Kidney Injury V: Interprofessional Care
Cellular Injury V: Apoptosis and Autophagy

