Executive summary of the KDIGO 2022 Clinical Practice Guideline for Diabetes Management in Chronic Kidney Disease: an update based on rapidly emerging new evidence

Effectiveness of Health Coaching in Early-Stage Chronic Kidney Diseases in Patients With Diabetes

This study aimed to look into the effectiveness of a 6-month health coaching intervention on kidney function in treating patients with type 2 diabetes and early-stage chronic kidney disease (CKD). It was conducted via a two-armed, randomized-controlled trial involving 92 diabetic patients who were regularly followed under the shared care system at a medical center in Taiwan. The intervention group had health coaching and usual care, while the control group had usual care only. During the 6 months, there was a significant improvement in kidney function in those patients who experienced significant worsening of eGFR prior to enrollment. The intervention group significantly improved their eGFR up to 7.92 (SD = 8.32, p = .003) and 7.63 mL/min/1.73 m2 (SD = 9.71, P < .001) within the 3-month and 6-month coaching, respectively, and the control group, neither eGFR nor urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) changed significantly during the trial. In addition, concurrent use of nutrition supplements at baseline is an essential factor in the effectiveness of intervention in this study. Based on the results of this study, health coaching may help protect kidney function for some patients with type 2 diabetes with early-stage CKD. It should raise awareness and attention to early-stage CKD and public education on the proper use of healthy nutrition supplements. Further studies on this issue with higher-quality evidence and a larger sample size are needed.

Liver function effects of SGLT2 inhibitor and GLP-1 receptor agonist combination treatment in patients with type 2 diabetes (post hoc analysis of RECAP study)

AIM

The favor effect on liver disease by odium-glucose cotransporter inhibitor (SGLT2i) and GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP1Ra) was reported; however, the effect of the combination treatment of these drugs was not well known.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed data for 643 patients with type 2 diabetes receiving SGLT2i + GLP1Ra combination treatment for at least 1 year (331 and 312 patients in the GLP1Ra- and SGLT2i-preceding groups, respectively). Propensity score (PS) matching was used to compare the effects of the preceding drugs on liver function.

RESULTS

The mean AST and ALT values at baseline, at the initiation of combination treatment, and at final observation were 29.8 ± 20.0 and 37.7 ± 29.5, 28.7 ± 17.3 and 35.3 ± 6.0, 26.0 ± 14.6 and 30.1 ± 21.6 IU/L, respectively, indicative of significant improvements in liver function (P < 0.001). Conversely, significant progress in the fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index category was observed even after the combination treatment (P = 0.03). Subgroup analysis revealed that a significant decrease in ALT was observed only in patients with a baseline ALT ≥30 IU/L after the combination treatment (P = 0.005). Improvement of the FIB-4 index category was observed in patients in the baseline FIB-4 index ≥2.6 group and in the 1.3 ≤FIB-4 index <2.6 group (46% and 19%, respectively). The matched model showed no significant differences in liver function after combination treatment between the SGLT2i- and GLP1Ra-preceding groups.

CONCLUSIONS

SGLT2i + GLP1Ra combination treatment significantly improved liver dysfunction and prevented the progression of FIB-4 index category among patients with an FIB-4 index ≥1.3.

ASK1 limits kidney glucose reabsorption, growth, and mid-late proximal tubule KIM-1 induction when diabetes and Western diet are combined with SGLT2 inhibition

Selonsertib is an apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 inhibitor (ASK1i) that attenuated the decline in creatinine-based estimated GFR in humans with type 2 diabetes and kidney disease but increased the rate of acute kidney injury. This study explored the individual and combined kidney effects of selonsertib and the antihyperglycemic sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) dapagliflozin in Western diet-fed male Akita mice, a murine model of early type 1 diabetes mellitus showing signs of systemic but no kidney inflammation. ASK1i reduced elevated plasma levels of proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines (IL-6, MCP1/CCL2, KC/CXCL1, and IP-10/CXCL10) without significantly changing hyperglycemia, glomerular hyperfiltration, and albuminuria or affecting the blood glucose and glomerular hyperfiltration-lowering effect of SGLT2i. A potential sign of tubular stress, SGLT2i modestly upregulated kidney cortex transcription of proinflammatory and profibrotic genes and distal tubule injury marker Ngal. Adding ASK1i to SGLT2i lowered the transcription of many of these genes, including Ngal. However, ASK1i enhanced kidney glucose reabsorption independent of SGLT2i, and combined ASK1i + SGLT2i increased kidney weight by 30%. This was associated with and positively correlated with the upregulation of the tubular stress/injury marker KIM-1, primarily in the mid-to-late proximal tubule. Combined ASK1i + SGLT2i increased the tubular injury score but not signs of kidney inflammation or fibrosis beyond a robust increase in kidney mRNA expression of Il6, Ccl2 (Mcp1), and Timp1, associated with increased plasma IL-6 levels. The data support the hypothesis that housekeeping functions of ASK1 limit glucose reabsorption and the associated growth and cellular stress induced in the mid-to-late proximal tubule by combining hyperglycemia and Western diet with SGLT2 inhibition.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Selonsertib is an apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) inhibitor that attenuated creatinine-based eGFR decline in humans with type 2 diabetes and kidney disease but increased acute kidney injury rates. Here, we report evidence in a murine model of early type 1 diabetes mellitus that housekeeping functions of ASK1 limit glucose reabsorption and the associated growth and cellular stress induced in the mid-to-late proximal tubule by combining hyperglycemia and Western diet with SGLT2 inhibition.

Comparative performance of CKD-EPI equations in people with diabetes: An international pooled analysis of individual participant data

AIM

This study assessed the concordance and misclassification of chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages between directly measured glomerular filtration rate (mGFR) and estimates of GFR (eGFR) using the creatinine-based CKD-EPI-2009 and the CKD-EPI-2021 equations in individuals with diabetes.

METHODS

Data from 5,177 individuals across six international diabetes cohorts included mGFR measurements using exogenous filtration markers. We calculated an intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC), bias, precision and accuracy between mGFR and CKD-EPI estimates using a four-level mixed-effect linear variance component model.

RESULTS

The pooled cohort included people with type 1 (n = 1,748, median age: 33 years [IQR: 27, 40], mGFR = 104.2 ml/min per 1.73 m2) and type 2 diabetes (n = 3,429, median age: 66 years [IQR: 58, 73], mGFR = 58.4 ml/min per 1.73 m2). Both CKD-EPI equations showed good agreement (2009 ICC: 0.90; 2021 ICC: 0.87) but substantial bias (2009: 3.7 ml/min/1.73 m2; 2021: 8.6 ml/min/1.73 m2), low precision (2009: 12.4 ml/min/1.73 m2; 2021: 13.91 ml/min/1.73 m2), and limited accuracy (2009 p30: 77 %; 2021 p30: 70 %) compared to mGFR.

CONCLUSION

The use of CKD-EPI equations has the potential for misdiagnosis and suboptimal CKD management in people with diabetes. Alternative methods of estimating kidney function for people with diabetes are needed to optimally manage diabetes-related kidney disease.

Updates in chronic kidney disease management: A systematic review

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant global health challenge that impacts both patients and the health care system. This systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of emerging therapeutic strategies for CKD management, including sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA), finerenone, sacubitril/valsartan, and potassium binders. We conducted searches in databases including PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL Complete, and Web of Science Core Collection to identify experimental and observational studies pertaining to each of these agents. Included studies were those that enrolled adult patients with CKD who evaluated SGLT2i, GLP-1RA, finerenone, sacubitril/valsartan, and potassium binders compared to other medications or placebo and evaluated renal-related outcomes as a primary or secondary outcome. Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias (version 2) tool for experimental studies and ROBINS-I for observational studies. After screening 2135 unique studies, 138 studies were eligible for this review. These studies describe a substantial and growing body of evidence focused on improving the management of CKD beyond renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (RASi), such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). Currently, SGLT2i have demonstrated consistent benefits with large effect sizes in preventing the progression of CKD, solidifying this class as a first-line treatment along with RASi. Subsequent consideration for GLP-1RA, finerenone, and sacubitril/valsartan should be dependent on patient-specific comorbidities, while potassium binders may allow for longer use of RASi.

Systolic blood pressure is associated with early and long-term changes in renal function in patients with dapagliflozin-treated moderate-to-advanced chronic kidney disease

AIMS

We investigated factors associated with early and long-term changes in renal function after initiating dapagliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor, in patients with moderate-to-advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD).

METHODS

A total of 124 patients (mean age, 70.0 ± 13.1 years; 93 men and 31 women) were retrospectively evaluated after 12 months of 10 mg dapagliflozin treatment based on changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). All patients had moderate-to-advanced CKD (mean eGFR: 36.8 ± 11.4 mL/min/1.73 m2; stage G3, n = 86; G4, n = 36; G5, n = 2). We used a multiple linear regression analysis to determine the independent factors associated with changes in eGFR during the administration of 12 months and first 1 month following dapagliflozin treatment.

RESULTS

Systolic blood pressure (SBP) (standard coefficient (β) =  - 0.499, probability (p) = 0.002) was independently correlated with change in eGFR during the administration of dapagliflozin. SBP (β =  - 0.265, p = 0.040), change in eGFR during the 12 months before dapagliflozin administration (β =  - 0.453, p < 0.001), and urinary protein-to-creatinine ratio (β =  - 0.282, p = 0.028) were independently correlated with the change in eGFR during the first 1 month of dapagliflozin administration.

CONCLUSIONS

SBP was associated with long-term change in eGFR after initiating dapagliflozin treatment in moderate-to-advanced CKD patients; SBP, urinary protein-to-creatinine ratio, and eGFR change before dapagliflozin administration were associated with early change in eGFR following dapagliflozin treatment in these patients.

Instant and low-cost detection of urinary microalbumin using smartphone technology and a paper-based platform with a colorimetric ratio analysis

Early detection of microalbuminuria is essential for preventing the progression of nephropathy and improving patient management. The present research proposes a simple, low-cost dye-binding method based on a standard addition principle for determining urinary albumin at clinically significant levels. The assay principle of the proposed paper-based analytical device is based on utilizing a specific and sensitive dye, bis(3',3″-diiodo-4',4″-dihydroxy-5',5″-dinitrophenyl) -3,4,5,6-tetrabromosulfonphthalein (DIDNTB), which binds to urinary albumin under extreme low pH conditions. The strategy was based on testing with three different albumin concentrations in the urine samples to obtain different color intensity ratios denoted as R1, R2, and R3, and further used to calculate a semi-quantitative amount of albumin. Under the optimized conditions, the linear range from 10 to 200 mg/L albumin and the detection limit 8.2 mg/L (R2 = 0.99) was obtained. Interference studies revealed that glucose, ascorbic acid, uric acid, L-histidine, and globulin were in the acceptable recovery range (89-109%). Reproducibility assessments showed that the coefficients of variation (CV) for this method ranged between 3.7% and 7.7%. Additionally, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) plots were generated to establish the cut-off value for instant semi-quantitative interpretation of the results. Results from real sample analysis revealed that the proposed method is comparable to a widely used quantitative immunoturbidity method (r = 0.94, n = 50).

Development and Validation of the Patient-Level Chinese Diabetes Outcome Model on Long-term Complications in Type 2 Diabetes: An Application of the Hong Kong Diabetes Register

OBJECTIVE

Patient-level simulation models, mainly developed in Western populations, capture complex interactions between risk factors and complications to predict the long-term effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of novel treatments and identify high-risk subgroups for personalized care. However, incidence of outcomes varies significantly by ethnicity and region. We used high-quality, patient-level register data to develop the Chinese Diabetes Outcomes Model (CDOM) for predicting incident and recurrent events in type 2 diabetes (T2D).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The CDOM was developed using the prospective Hong Kong Diabetes Register (HKDR) cohort (n = 21,453; median follow-up duration, 7.9 years; 166,433 patient-years). It was externally validated with a retrospective territory-wide cohort of Chinese patients with T2D attending Hong Kong publicly funded diabetes centers and community clinics (n = 176,120; follow-up duration, 7.2 years; 953,523 patient-years).

RESULTS

The CDOM predicted first and recurrent events with satisfactory performance during internal (C-statistic = 0.740-0.941) and external (C-statistic = 0.758-0.932) validation after calibration. The respective C-statistic values for cancer were 0.664 and 0.661. Subgroup analysis showed consistent performance during internal (C-statistic = 0.632-0.953) and external (C-statistic = 0.598-0.953) validation after calibration.

CONCLUSIONS

The CDOM, developed using comprehensive register data with long-term follow-up, is a robust tool for predicting long-term outcomes in Chinese patients with T2D. The model enables the identification of patient subgroups to augment study design and develop tailored novel treatment strategies, inform policy, and guide practice to improve cost-effectiveness of diabetes care.

Deletion of Pyruvate Carboxylase in Tubular Epithelial Cell Promotes Renal Fibrosis by Regulating SQOR/cGAS/STING-Mediated Glycolysis

Renal fibrosis is a common pathway involved in the progression of various chronic kidney diseases to end-stage renal disease. Recent studies show that mitochondrial injury of renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) is a crucial pathological foundation for renal fibrosis. However, the underlying regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. Pyruvate carboxylase (PC) is a catalytic enzyme located within the mitochondria that is intricately linked with mitochondrial damage and metabolism. In the present study, the downregulation of PC in various fibrotic animal and human kidney samples is demonstrated. Renal proximal tubule-specific Pcx gene knockout mice (PcxcKO) has significant interstitial fibrosis compared to control mice, with heightened expression of extracellular matrix molecules. This is further demonstrated in a stable PC knock-out RTEC line. Mechanistically, PC deficiency reduces its interaction with sulfide:quinone oxidoreductase (SQOR), increasing the ubiquitination and degradation of SQOR. This leads to mitochondrial morphological and functional disruption, increased mtDNA release, activation of the cGAS-STING pathway, and elevated glycolysis levels, and ultimately, promotes renal fibrosis. This study investigates the molecular mechanisms through which PC deficiency induces mitochondrial injury and metabolic reprogramming in RTECs. This study provides a novel theoretical foundation and potential therapeutic targets for the pathogenesis and treatment of renal fibrosis.

Translational research on cognitive impairment in chronic kidney disease

Cognitive decline is common in patients with acute or chronic kidney disease. Several areas of brain function can be affected, including short- and long-term memory, attention and inhibitory control, sleep, mood, eating control and motor function. Cognitive decline in kidney disease shares risk factors with cognitive dysfunction in people without kidney disease, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy diet. However, additional kidney-specific risk factors may contribute, such as uremic toxins, electrolyte imbalances, chronic inflammation, acid-base disorders or endocrine dysregulation. Traditional and kidney-specific risk factors may interact to cause damage to the blood-brain barrier, induce vascular damage in the brain and cause neurotoxicity or neuroinflammation. Here, we discuss recent insights into the pathomechanisms of cognitive decline from animal models and novel avenues for prevention and therapy. We focus on a several areas that influence cognition: blood-brain barrier disruption, the role of skeletal muscle, physical activity and the endocrine factor irisin, and the emerging therapeutic role of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. Taken together, these studies demonstrate the importance of animal models in providing a mechanistic understanding of this complex condition and their potential to explain the mechanisms of novel therapies.

Effects of sotagliflozin on kidney and cardiac outcome in a hypertensive model of subtotal nephrectomy in male mice

Dual inhibition of sodium glucose cotransporters 1 and 2 (SGLT1/SGLT2) by sotagliflozin protects the kidney and heart in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). To gain mechanistic insights, the current study aimed to establish a murine model of hypertensive CKD that shows cardio-renal protection by sotagliflozin. Since protection by SGLT2 inhibitors can be diabetes-independent, a nondiabetic murine model of subtotal nephrectomy with angiotensin II infusion-facilitated hypertension was followed for 7 weeks. The model showed 40% lower GFR, doubling in plasma FGF23, 50 mmHg higher systolic blood pressure (SBP), 100-fold increased albuminuria, and robust signs of kidney injury, inflammation, and fibrosis versus sham controls, associated with a 30% larger left cardiac ventricle and wall thickness and upregulation of markers of cardiac overload and fibrosis. Sotagliflozin, initiated 1 week after the last surgery, showed target-engagement evidenced by glucosuria, 9 mmHg lower SBP, temporal reduction in body weight and GFR, and 30% higher plasma GLP1. Sotagliflozin, however, did not improve markers of kidney injury, inflammation, fibrosis, albuminuria, and plasma FGF23, or signs of cardiac overload, fibrosis, or impaired function. Limited sotagliflozin responsiveness may relate to short treatment time, limited metabolic benefits in nondiabetic setting and/or the model's dominant angiotensin II-driven effects/hypertension.

Efficacy and Safety of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors in Patients with and without Advanced CKD: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background:

The efficacy and safety of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD), defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <30 ml/min/1.73m2, has not been adequately studied.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of phase 3 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of SGLT-2 inhibitors in adults. We searched the MEDLINE and Embase databases from inception to April 2024. The primary outcomes were a composite kidney (worsening kidney function, kidney failure, kidney or cardiovascular death) and cardiovascular (cardiovascular death or hospitalization for heart failure) outcome. Secondary outcomes included other reported cardiovascular and kidney outcomes, eGFR slopes, mechanistic and safety outcomes. The relative risks (RR) were estimated using a random effects model. Interaction effects were estimated for treatment effect modification by baseline eGFR (<30 and ≥30 ml/min/1.73m2).

Results:

A total of 10 RCTs were included (total of 4800 patients with eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73m2). Participants were randomized to receive either placebo or an SGLT-2 inhibitor. Use of SGLT-2 inhibitors was associated with a lower incidence of the primary composite kidney outcome in patients with eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73m2 [RR 0.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.70-0.89] and ≥30 ml/min/1.73m2 (RR 0.71, 95% CI 0.64-0.79). The incidence of the primary cardiovascular outcome was numerically lower in the SGLT-2 inhibitor arm in patients with eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73m2 (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.71-1.10). In patients with eGFR ≥30 ml/min/1.73m2, SGLT-2 inhibitor use was associated with a lower incidence of the composite cardiovascular outcome (RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.71-0.83). However, there was no interaction between advanced CKD status and the effect of SGLT-2 inhibitors on any of the primary or secondary outcomes. The incidence of adverse events was similar in both arms.

Conclusion:

SGLT-2 inhibitors retain their kidney and cardiovascular protective effect in patients with advanced CKD, with no added safety concerns.

Non-Steroidal Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists: A Paradigm Shift in the Management of Diabetic Nephropathy

BACKGROUND

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease worldwide. The management of DKD relies on controlling glycemia and blood pressure levels, as well as reducing proteinuria. While the traditional renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASi) and the recently approved type 2 Na+/glucose co-transporter inhibitors (SGLT2i) have significantly improved patient outcomes, residual risks remain unaddressed.

SUMMARY

This review explores (1) the mechanisms of action of finerenone, a novel non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (ns-MRA), (2) the evidence of finerenone-induced kidney protection in clinical trials, and (3) the comparative advantages over conventional MRAs. The potential synergy between finerenone and SGLT2i is also addressed, alongside research perspectives and practical considerations for implementation in clinical practice.

KEY MESSAGES

Finerenone has emerged as a breakthrough therapy in the management of DKD, demonstrating robust nephro- and cardio-protective effects.

ACSL4 predicts rapid kidney function decline in patients with diabetic kidney disease

Background

Ferroptosis of kidney tubular epithelial cells contributes to the pathogenesis of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). An increase in the enzyme long-chain fatty acid CoA ligase 4 (ACSL4) favors ferroptosis. However, the association between ACSL4 in renal tubules and kidney outcomes of patients with DKD is unknown.

Methods

To investigate the predictive property of ACSL4 in rapid kidney function decline in patients with DKD, a retrospective cohort of 72 biopsy-proven DKD patients were enrolled and followed up for a median of 23 months. Tubular expression levels of ACSL4 in the renal biopsy specimens from 72 DKD patients and 12 control subjects were measured using immunohistochemistry staining. The associations between the ACSL4 level and clinical characteristics as well as rapid kidney function decline defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) slope ≤ -5 ml/min/1.73m2/year were analyzed.

Results

ACSL4 was mainly expressed in tubular epithelial cells. The tubular ACSL4 expression levels in the DKD patients were significantly higher than those in the control subjects. ACSL4 was positively correlated with proteinuria and negatively correlated with albumin and hemoglobin at the time of the renal biopsy. During the follow-up time period, the median eGFR slope of these DKD patients was -2.30 ml/min/1.73m2/year. ACSL4 was negatively correlated with the eGFR slope. The top tertile of baseline ACSL4 was found to identify the subjects with DKD who were at high risk for rapid kidney function decline and a similar significant relationship was found using ACSL4 levels as a continuous variable.

Conclusions

ACSL4 was associated with a rapid progression of DKD and may serve as a novel pathological biomarker.

Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitor in Diabetic and Nondiabetic Renal Transplant Recipients

Introduction

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) improve cardiovascular prognosis in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes, and heart failure; and slow the decline of kidney dysfunction in patients with albuminuria. Although safety and efficacy of SGLT2i have not been investigated in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs), their marketing authorization leaves the possibility of their use in these patients in France.

Methods

This was a prospective multicenter real-life study including all consecutive KTRs treated with SGLT2i.

Results

We identified 347 KTRs treated with SGLT2i (97% with dapagliflozin), with an initiation of treatment most often beyond the first year after transplantation (87%). Importantly, 226 (65.1%) were diabetic and 245 (70.6%) were treated with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs). We found a low incidence of urinary tract infections (UTIs) (6.6%) and genital mycosis (0.6%), without any serious adverse event. Overall, SGLT2i were stopped in 54 patients (15.6%). The causes of SGLT2i discontinuations were very diverse. The main causes were graft dysfunction (32%), intercurrent infections (17%), urinary infections (11%), and digestive symptoms (9%). KTRs with a low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), especially those with eGFR < 30 ml/min per 1.73 m2, presented with the highest incidence of SGLT2i discontinuation (P = 0.003). SGLT2i were associated with a reduction in proteinuria, found in both diabetic and nondiabetic KTRs. In addition, they had an antihypertensive effect restricted to uncontrolled-hypertensive patients.

Conclusion

SGLT2i have been used in KTRs since their authorization in France. They were discontinued more frequently in patients with impaired graft function; however, the expected side effects were infrequent and not life-threatening. The short-term antiproteinuric and antihypertensive effects are promising.

A drug safety evaluation of dapagliflozin for diabetic nephropathies in patients with cardiovascular risk

INTRODUCTION

Diabetic nephropathy is a significant concern for patients with cardiovascular disease. Dapagliflozin, an SGLT2 inhibitor, has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach to managing diabetic nephropathy and reducing cardiovascular risk.

AREAS COVERED

This review encompasses the research and literature search methodology, including clinical trials and real-world evidence, assessing the safety profile of Dapagliflozin in patients with diabetic nephropathy and cardiovascular risk.

EXPERT OPINION

Dapagliflozin, an SGLT2 inhibitor, has redefined patient-centric care by simultaneously improving glycemic control, cardiovascular health, and renal outcomes in individuals with type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and nephropathy.

Safety and Efficacy of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors in Older Adults with Variable Disease States: A Meta-analysis of Large Placebo-Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Recent guidelines recommend the use of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors (SGLT2i) in patients suffering from cardiorenal diseases. However, the safety and efficacy of SGLT2i in older adults with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), heart failure (HF), and chronic kidney disease (CKD) remain unclear.

METHODS

Online databases were queried from inception to 11 July 2023 to identify primary or secondary analyses for inclusion. Efficacy outcomes included all-cause mortality, cardiovascular (CV) death, hospitalization for heart failure (HHF), major adverse cardiac events (MACE), CV death/HHF composite, and cardiorenal composite events. Safety endpoints included acute kidney injury (AKI), serious adverse events, genital infections, limb amputation, fractures, urinary tract infections (UTI), and volume depletion. Data were pooled using a random-effects model to derive risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

Eight trials with 32,541 older adults identified in primary or secondary analyses were included. In older adults, SGLT2i reduced the risk of all-cause mortality (RR 0.88; 95% CI 0.83- 0.95), CV death (RR 0.82; 95% CI 0.74-0.92), HHF (RR 0.72; 95% CI 0.66-0.79), MACE (RR 0.87; 95% CI 0.77-0.99), CV death/HHF composite (RR 0.78; 95% CI 0.70-0.88), and cardiorenal composite events (RR 0.77; 95% CI 0.70-0.85). For safety endpoints, SGLT2i decreased the risk of serious adverse events (RR 0.92; 95% CI 0.89-0.95) and increased the risk of genital infections (RR 3.48; 95% CI 2.58-4.69).

CONCLUSIONS

This analysis of randomized trials demonstrates that SGLT2i are efficacious in older adults. However, since older individuals are often underrepresented in most clinical trials, further research targeting this growing demographic is essential.

Baseline Characteristics of the DISCOVER CKD Prospective Cohort

INTRODUCTION

Real-world data from patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are limited, particularly regarding clinical management, treatment patterns and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in the context of new therapies and updated standard of care guidelines.

METHODS

DISCOVER CKD is an observational cohort study enrolling adult patients with CKD, defined by an International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision code, or with two estimated glomerular filtration rate measures < 75 ml/min/1.73 m2 recorded 91-730 days apart. We describe the demographics, baseline characteristics and patient-reported outcomes of patients enrolled in the prospective phase.

RESULTS

Of 1052 patients (mean age 62.5 years; 36.9% female) enrolled from the USA, UK, Spain, Italy, Sweden and Japan, 727 (69.1%) had stage 2-3b CKD and 325 (30.9%) had stage 4-5 CKD. Overall, 72.4%, 43.0% and 37.5% of patients had histories of hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidaemia, respectively. In total, 58.7% and 14.0% were receiving renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASi) and sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), respectively. Compared with patients with stage 2-3b CKD, patients with stage 4-5 CKD reported numerically greater symptom burden across all 11 symptoms measured, numerically worse HRQoL across all eight categories measured using the 36-item Short Form (SF-36) questionnaire, and numerically greater impairment at work across all four categories measured using the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment chronic kidney disease (WPAI-CKD) questionnaire. Compared with patients with stage 2-3b CKD, a higher proportion of patients with stage 4-5 CKD had anaemia, hyperkalaemia and oedema (49.8% vs. 16.9%, 21.8% vs. 8.4% and 17.5% vs. 9.5%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

These contemporary real-world data from six countries highlight the substantial symptom, medication and psychosocial burden associated with CKD, and continued gaps in treatment. Graphical abstract available for this article.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT04034992.

Phenylethanol Glycosides from Cistanche tubulosa Modulate the Gut Microbiota and Cecal Metabolites to Ameliorate Diabetic Nephropathy Induced by Streptozotocin Combined with High-Fat Diet in Rats

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a prevalent complication and serious microvascular of diabetes mellitus. After previous studies, we found that phenylethanol glycosides (CPhGs) derived from Cistanche tubulosa (Schenk) Wight exerts antidiabetic and renoprotective effects. However, the effects of CPhGs on DN remain incompletely understood. The study aimed to examine the effects of CPhGs on DN in rats and explore the underlying mechanism involved. A DN rat model was established by streptozotocin (STZ) combined with a high-fat diet. Reagent kits were used to assess the extent to which CPhGs ameliorate hyperglycemia, insulin resistance (IR), renal dysfunction, kidney oxidative stress, and peripheral inflammation. Histology and immunohistochemical staining were used to detect the changes in renal tissue structure and the expression levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and collagen I. Furthermore, we analyzed the cecal contents of DN rats to investigate the effect of CPhGs on gut microbiota by using 16S rRNA sequencing and broad-spectrum metabolite profiling. The results showed that CPhGs demonstrated a range of advantageous outcomes in DN, encompassing the enhancement of kidney function and alleviation of hyperglycemia, IR, renal injury, oxidative stress, and peripheral inflammatory reactions. In addition, CPhGs regulated the abundance of the [Eubacterium]_coprostanoligenes_group, Oscillospiraceae_UCG-005, etc. to modulate the gut microbiota. CPhGs significantly upregulated the content of vitamin B6 and tyrosyl-tryptophan and downregulated histamine, L-methionine, etc. In summary, the therapeutic efficacy of CPhGs on DN rats may be achieved by modulating the gut microbiota and cecal metabolites to restore the metabolic disorders of vitamin B6, histidine, etc.

Combination therapy as a new standard of care in diabetic and non-diabetic chronic kidney disease

Combination therapy, involving the use of multiple medications together, is becoming a new standard of care for chronic kidney disease (CKD). For people with CKD, combination therapy offers the promise of preventing kidney failure and reducing the risk of heart problems. This approach is appealing because different drugs target distinct mechanisms involved in CKD progression. For instance, some target immune responses, others reduce kidney inflammation and scarring, while others improve blood pressure within the kidneys. Data from large clinical trials suggest that each treatment works effectively on its own, regardless of other medications people are taking. Combining therapies can also reduce the risk of side effects of individual medications. This review highlights the evidence for combination therapy in CKD, explores how to improve its use, and discusses how future studies may answer remaining questions.

ABSTRACT

A range of therapies now exists to reduce the risk of kidney failure and cardiovascular events in people with type 2 diabetes, including renin-angiotensin system blockade, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists. With multiple clinical trials underway, it is likely that at least some of these therapies-as well as additional agents such as endothelin receptor antagonists-will further demonstrate kidney-protective effects in people with CKD who do not have diabetes in the near future. For conditions such as IgA nephropathy, several therapies have recently been approved or are being evaluated in late phase trials. Thus combination therapy is emerging as a new standard for diabetic and non-diabetic chronic kidney disease (CKD). This approach is supported by randomized data suggesting that each therapeutic class offers independent and additive benefits in diabetic kidney disease, regardless of background therapy. Notably, the reduction in hyperkalaemia and fluid retention with SGLT2 inhibitors may enhance the tolerability and safety of other treatments. In this review, we present the rationale for combination therapy with evidence-based kidney therapies in diabetic and non-diabetic CKD. We also summarize randomized evidence supporting a multi-medicine approach, address safety considerations, review ongoing trials, and propose frameworks for implementing treatments aligned with patient risk to optimize person-centred care and reduce long-term risks of kidney failure and related complications.

Effect of semaglutide on kidney function across different levels of baseline HbA1c, blood pressure, body weight and albuminuria in SUSTAIN 6 and PIONEER 6

BACKGROUND

This post hoc analysis explored the effects of semaglutide on estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) slope by baseline glycemic control, blood pressure (BP), body mass index (BMI) and albuminuria status in people with type 2 diabetes and high cardiovascular risk.

METHODS

Pooled SUSTAIN 6 (Trial to Evaluate Cardiovascular and Other Long-Term Outcomes With Semaglutide in Subjects With Type 2 Diabetes) and PIONEER 6 (A Trial Investigating the Cardiovascular Safety of Oral Semaglutide in Subjects With Type 2 Diabetes) data were analyzed for change in eGFR slope by baseline hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (<8%/≥8%; <64/≥64 mmol/mol), systolic BP (<140/90/≥140/90 mmHg) and BMI (<30/≥30 kg/m2). SUSTAIN 6 data were analyzed by baseline urinary albumin:creatinine ratio (UACR; <30/30-300/>300 mg/g).

RESULTS

The estimated absolute treatment differences overall in eGFR slope (95% confidence intervals) favored semaglutide versus placebo in the pooled analysis [0.59 (0.29; 0.89) mL/min/1.73 m2/year] and in SUSTAIN 6 [0.60 (0.24; 0.96) mL/min/1.73 m2/year]; the absolute benefit was consistent across all HbA1c, BP, BMI and UACR subgroups (all P-interaction >.5).

CONCLUSION

A clinically meaningful reduction in risk of chronic kidney disease progression was observed with semaglutide versus placebo regardless of HbA1c, BP, BMI, and UACR levels.

Phase 1 studies of the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of BI 690517 (vicadrostat), a novel aldosterone synthase inhibitor, in healthy male volunteers

PURPOSE

In chronic kidney disease (CKD), raised plasma aldosterone levels are strongly associated with adverse cardiorenal outcomes. Current standard of care may improve outcomes; however, elevated aldosterone levels often persist. We report safety results for BI 690517 (vicadrostat), a potent, selective aldosterone synthase inhibitor under investigation for CKD.

METHODS

Four phase 1 studies of BI 690517 conducted in healthy European/Chinese/Japanese men: two single rising dose (SRD) and two multiple rising dose (MRD) studies.

PRIMARY ENDPOINT

proportion of participants with investigator-defined drug-related adverse events (AEs).

RESULTS

Single and multiple doses of BI 690517 ≤ 80 mg (0.7-80 mg [European SRD]; 3-80 mg [Chinese/Japanese SRD and MRD]) were well tolerated. Proportions of participants with drug-related AEs: European SRD, 8.3% (4/48); Chinese/Japanese SRD, 21.4% (12/56); European MRD, 13.9% (10/72); Japanese MRD, 2.8% (1/36). No serious AEs, deaths, or AEs leading to treatment discontinuation were reported; one AE of severe orthostatic hypotension occurred (European SRD). Plasma exposure to BI 690517 increased dose dependently; median time to maximum concentration was 0.50-1.75 h and mean half-life was 4.4-6.3 h. Exposure was slightly higher in Asians versus Europeans and may relate to lower body weight in Asian participants. A standardized high-fat/high-calorie meal reduced the rate, but not extent, of BI 690517 absorption. Plasma aldosterone concentrations decreased markedly 1-2 h after BI 690517 administration; decreases were more pronounced with increasing BI 690517 doses.

CONCLUSION

BI 690517 was well tolerated and demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition of aldosterone synthesis. Larger studies are warranted to confirm these findings.

Pathophysiology of vascular ageing and the effect of novel cardio-renal protective medications in preventing progression of chronic kidney disease in people living with diabetes

AIM

Among people with diabetes those with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have a reduced life expectancy with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) a major contributor to morbidity and mortality. CKD related to diabetes is growing worldwide and is one of the leading causes of kidney failure globally. Diabetes is associated with accelerated vascular ageing and the related mechanisms and mediators that drive the progression of CKD and CVD disease in people with diabetes may help provide insights into the pathophysiology of cardio-renal complications and guide treatment interventions in people with diabetes.

METHODS

We conducted a narrative review of the literature using PubMed for English language articles that contained keywords that related to diabetes, chronic or diabetic kidney disease, ageing, cellular senescence, arterial stiffness, Klotho and sirtuins, sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors, renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.

RESULTS

Progressive kidney disease in diabetes is associated with accelerated ageing driven in part by multiple processes such as cellular senescence, inflammation, oxidative stress and circulating uremic toxins. This accelerated ageing phenotype contributes to increased arterial stiffness, endothelial dysfunction, cognitive decline and muscle wasting, thereby elevating morbidity and mortality in individuals with diabetes and CKD. Deficiency of the kidney-derived anti-ageing hormone Klotho and reduced sirtuin levels play pivotal roles in these ageing pathways. Dietary, lifestyle and pharmacological interventions targeting vascular ageing may help reduce the progression of CKD and associated CVD in people with diabetes. The current standard of care and pillars of treatment for kidney disease such as RAAS inhibitors, SGLT-2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists all influence pathways involved in vascular ageing.

CONCLUSIONS

A multifactorial intervention to prevent the development of CKD by targeting traditional risk factors as well as treatment with novel agents with cardio-renal beneficial effects can prevent accelerated ageing and extend lifespan in people with diabetes.

Integrating metabolomics and network pharmacology to investigate Da-Chai-Hu Decoction prevents kidney injury in diabetic mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The current treatment for diabetic nephropathy (DN) is inadequate, and there is an urgent need for an effective and minimally adverse alternative therapy. Da-Chai-Hu Decoction (DCHD) is a time-honored herbal remedy from Chinese medicine, boasting a legacy spanning more than 1800 years. Clinical observations suggest that it may provide therapeutic benefits for individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Nonetheless, the specific advantages of DCHD in relation to DN and the mechanisms through which it operates are still not well understood.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This research aims to investigate whether DCHD can avert renal damage in mice with T2DM and to elucidate the mechanisms by which DCHD combats DN through the integration of metabolomics and network pharmacology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The beneficial effects of DCHD on DN was initially evaluated using a renal injury model in T2DM mice. Subsequently, untargeted metabolomics analysis was utilized to investigate the potential mechanisms of DCHD against DN. Additionally, UPLC-HR MS/MS was employed to identify the chemical components in DCHD and the absorption components in DCHD-treated plasma. Network pharmacology and our newly proposed function-guided and network-based complementary methodology (FNICM) was utilized to predict the potential pathway of DCHD intervention in DN. Finally, the core pathway was validated through Western blotting analysis and ELISA.

RESULTS

A total of 260 chemical components were detected in DCHD, and 41 absorption components were found in DCHD-treated plasma by UPLC-HR MS/MS for the first time. Additionally, In vivo experiments revealed that DCHD exerts the ability to regulate the disorder in glucose/lipid metabolism and improves kidney dysfunction. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis utilizing non-targeted urine metabolomics and the FNICM method identified a total of 33 differential metabolites, which were categorized as core metabolites. Lastly, combined FNICM, network pharmacology and experimental pharmacology studies suggest that DCHD may regulate the AGEs/RAGE/AKT pathways in combating DN.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that DCHD treats DN through the inhibition of the AGEs/RAGE/AKT pathway and by regulating metabolic profiles.

Transcriptomics of SGLT2-positive early proximal tubule segments in mice: response to type 1 diabetes, SGLT1/2 inhibition, or GLP1 receptor agonism

SGLT2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and GLP1 receptor (GLP1R) agonists have kidney protective effects. To better understand their molecular effects, RNA sequencing was performed in SGLT2-positive proximal tubule segments isolated by immunostaining-guided laser capture microdissection. Male adult DBA wild-type (WT) and littermate diabetic Akita mice ± Sglt1 knockout (Sglt1-KO) were given vehicle or SGLT2i dapagliflozin (dapa; 10 mg/kg diet) for 2 wk, and other Akita mice received GLP1R agonist semaglutide [sema; 3 nmol/(kg body wt·day), sc]. Dapa (254 ± 11 mg/dL) and Sglt1-KO (367 ± 11 mg/dL) but not sema (407 ± 44 mg/dL) significantly reduced hyperglycemia in Akita mice (480 ± 33 mg/dL). The 20,748 detected annotated protein-coding genes included robust enrichment of S1-segment marker genes. Akita showed 198 (∼1%) differentially expressed genes versus WT (DEGs; adjusted P ≤ 0.1), including downregulation of anionic transport, unsaturated fatty acid, and carboxylic acid metabolism. Dapa changed only two genes in WT but restored 43% of DEGs in Akita, including upregulation of the lipid metabolic pathway, carboxylic acid metabolism, and organic anion transport. In Akita, sema restored ∼10% of DEGs, and Sglt1-KO and dapa were synergistic (restored ∼61%), possibly involving additive blood glucose effects (193 ± 15 mg/dL). Targeted analysis of transporters and channels (t test, P < 0.05) revealed that ∼10% of 526 detectable transporters and channels were downregulated by Akita, with ∼60% restored by dapa. Dapa, dapa + Sglt1-KO, and sema also altered Akita-insensitive genes. Among DEGs in Akita, ∼30% were unresponsive to any treatment, indicating potential new targets. In conclusion, SGLT2i restored transcription for multiple metabolic pathways and transporters in SGLT2-positive proximal tubule segments in diabetic mice, with a smaller effect also observed for GLP1R agonism.NEW & NOTEWORTHY SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP1 receptor agonists have kidney protective effects. By combining immunostaining-guided laser capture microdissection and RNA sequencing, the study established how the gene expression profile changes in SGLT2-positive proximal tubule cells in response to type 1 Akita diabetes and to pharmacological intervention by SGLT2 inhibition or GLP1R agonism and genetic deletion of SGLT1. The data also indicate genes unresponsive to those treatments that may include new therapeutical candidates.

Consensus Report on the Use of Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Chronic Kidney Disease and Diabetes

This report represents the conclusions of 15 experts in nephrology and endocrinology, based on their knowledge of key studies and evidence in the field, on the role of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) in patients with diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD), including those receiving dialysis. The experts discussed issues related to CGM accuracy, indications, education, clinical outcomes, quality of life, research gaps, and barriers to dissemination. Three main goals of management for patients with CKD and diabetes were identified: (1) greater use of CGMs for better glycemic monitoring and management, (2) further research evaluating the accuracy, feasibility, outcomes, and potential value of CGMs in patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) on hemodialysis, and (3) equitable access to CGM technology for patients with CKD. The experts also developed 15 conclusions regarding the use of CGMs in this population related to CGMs' unique delivery of both real-time information that can guide monitoring and management of glycemia and continuous and predictive data in this population, which is at higher risk for hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. The group noted three major clinical gaps: (1) CGMs are not routinely prescribed for patients with diabetes and CKD; (2) CGMs are not approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for patients with diabetes who are on dialysis; and (3) CGMs are not routinely available to all of those who need them because of structural barriers in the health care system. These gaps can be improved with greater stakeholder collaboration, education, and awareness brought to the use of CGM technology in CKD.

A Single-Center Review of Cases to Understand the Indian Polyvalent Antivenom Use in Hump-Nosed Pit Viper Bites in South India

Introduction

India, with nearly 60 venomous snake species, has just one commercially available antivenom, the Indian polyvalent antivenom (IPAV). The hump-nosed pit viper (Hypnale hypnale), an indigenous venomous snake, causes considerable morbidity and at time mortality for which we have no commercially available antivenom. However, most clinicians rely purely on the clinical syndromes and end up using the available IPAV for H. hypnale envenomation.

Methods

Between April 2017 and December 2022, we reviewed 41 cases of H. hypnale envenomation, comparing clinical and laboratory profiles of patients who received IPAV with those who did not.

Results

Local signs of envenomation were seen in 39 (95.12%) cases, with the most common being edema or swelling at the bite site. Eight (19.5%) patients developed coagulopathy, and two developed renal failure during their hospital stay. Among the 39 envenomated individuals, 13 received polyvalent snake antivenom. Over half of those receiving antivenom had hypersensitivity reactions. Patients who received antisnake venom (ASV) had increased intensive care unit stay, duration of hospitalization, and hospital expenses as compared to patients who did not. There was one death among the patients who received antivenom.

Conclusion

H. hypnale viper envenomation is associated with local and systemic signs of envenomation, with coagulopathy being a common complication. Administering the current polyvalent antivenom to victims of H. hypnale bites did not reduce the morbidities or prevent mortality; instead, it exposes them to additional risks associated with ASV administration.

Use of SGLT2 Inhibitors in Frail Older Adults is Associated with Increased Survival: A Retrospective Study

BACKGROUND

In recent years, sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) have emerged as a valuable treatment for type 2 diabetes (T2D) and heart failure. Despite these medications seeming to be safe in older people, the literature about SGLT2i and frailty is still limited. This study aims to evaluate whether SGLT2i use is associated with increased survival in older adults and if frailty can affect the findings.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We enrolled over 65 patients admitted to the Geriatrics Wards at the University Hospital 'P. Giaccone' in Palermo, Italy, between December 2022 and May 2023. After 12 months of follow-up, various outcomes were assessed, including mortality, hospitalization, glycemic dysregulation, urinary tract infections, and falls. The association between SGLT2i use and mortality was analyzed and reported as hazard ratios (HRs) with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

A total of 80 patients were included in the study (mean age 79.5 ± 8.5 years; 50% were women). Patients using SGLT2i had a higher prevalence of T2D (p = 0.02) and cirrhosis (p = 0.001). After adjusting for potential confounders, SGLT2i use was significantly associated with a reduced mortality risk (HR = 0.53; 95% CI: 0.20-0.93; p = 0.02). When stratified by the presence of multidimensional frailty, SGLT2i use was significantly associated with a lower risk of mortality in frail patients (HR = 0.27; 95% CI: 0.06-0.88; p = 0.008), but not in robust ones.

CONCLUSION

In older frail patients, the use of SGLT2i is associated with reduced mortality after 12 months of follow-up. Further larger studies are needed to evaluate the role of these medications in older adults.

International Nephrology Masterclass in Chronic Kidney Disease: Rationale, Summary, and Future Perspectives

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition that affects more than 10% of the population worldwide, accounting for more than 843 million (M) individuals. The prevalence of CKD (844 M patients) is higher than that of diabetes mellitus (422 M patients), cancer (42 M patients), and HIV (37 M patients), but people are often less aware of it. Global expert groups predict reductions in the nephrology workforce in the next decade, with a declining interest in nephrology careers. Over time, KDIGO guidelines have also focused on topics related to the prevention or management of CKD patients in real-life settings. On these premises, a new educational program with international experts in the field of nephrology took place from November 2022 until March 2023 in Milan, Italy. This multinational masterclass provided an educational platform providing unbiased education on diagnosis and treatment by sharing the most recent research data on CKD and comorbidities, therefore creating a snowball effect to increase the implementation of best practices worldwide, using examples from 'real-life' patient outcomes. This paper provides an overview of the International Nephrology Masterclass (INM) concept, summarizing the key lectures and discussions, and giving an outline of future key developments.

Selonsertib in Patients with Diabetic Kidney Disease: A Phase 2b Randomized Active Run-In Clinical Trial

Key Points

In a randomized, placebo-controlled, phase 2b study, we compared the effects of selonsertib with placebo on eGFR decline in people with type 2 diabetes and CKD. Patients taking selonsertib had slower eGFR decline but were more likely to reach a composite kidney outcome and report AKI. A larger trial with longer-term follow-up would more precisely assess the relative benefits and risks of selonsertib in this setting.

Background

Selonsertib is an apoptosis signal–regulating kinase 1 inhibitor that reduces inflammation, fibrosis, and apoptosis. The MOSAIC study evaluated whether selonsertib attenuated kidney function decline in patients with diabetic kidney disease.

Methods

We conducted a phase 2b study in adults with type 2 diabetes and eGFR 20 to <60 ml/min per 1.73 m2 with urine albumin-creatinine ratio 150–5000 mg/g on maximum tolerated dose of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker. To account for an acute selonsertib-related decrease in serum creatinine–based eGFR (eGFRcr), patients entered a 4-week selonsertib run-in period to establish treatment-specific baseline eGFRcr. Patients were randomized 1:1 to selonsertib 18 mg or matching placebo once daily. We followed all participants up until the last randomized participant completed 48 weeks of follow-up. The primary efficacy outcome was the difference in eGFRcr slopes from treatment-specific baselines to week 84, evaluated at a prespecified two-sided P = 0.30. We also evaluated kidney clinical events (eGFRcr ≥40% decline from pre–run-in baseline, kidney failure, or death due to kidney disease) and adverse events.

Results

In total, 310 patients were randomized (selonsertib n =154, placebo n =156; 68% male, mean age 65 years, mean baseline eGFRcr 35 ml/min per 1.73 m2). Mean difference between selonsertib and placebo eGFRcr slopes at week 84 was 1.20 ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year (95% confidence interval, −0.41 to 2.81; P = 0.14). Kidney clinical events occurred in 17% (26/154) of patients randomized to selonsertib and 12% (19/156) of those randomized to placebo (difference 4.7%; 95% confidence interval, −6.3% to 15.9%). The most common investigator-reported adverse event was AKI (selonsertib 11.0/100 and placebo 5.9/100 patient-years).

Conclusions

Selonsertib attenuated the decline in eGFRcr over up to 84 weeks; however, it resulted in a numerically higher number of patients reaching a kidney clinical event and a numerically higher rate of investigator-reported AKI.

Clinical Trial registry name and registration number:

Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Selonsertib in Participants With Moderate to Advanced Diabetic Kidney Disease (MOSAIC), NCT04026165 .

Management of patients with hypertension and chronic kidney disease referred to Hypertension Excellence Centres among 27 countries. On behalf of the European Society of Hypertension Working Group on Hypertension and the Kidney

Objective Real-life management of patients with hypertension and chronic kidney disease (CKD) among European Society of Hypertension Excellence Centres (ESH-ECs) is unclear : we aimed to investigate it. Methods A survey was conducted in 2023. The questionnaire contained 64 questions asking ESH-ECs representatives to estimate how patients with CKD are managed. Results Overall, 88 ESH-ECS representatives from 27 countries participated. According to the responders, renin-angiotensin system (RAS) blockers, calcium-channel blockers and thiazides were often added when these medications were lacking in CKD patients, but physicians were more prone to initiate RAS blockers (90% [interquartile range: 70-95%]) than MRA (20% [10-30%]), SGLT2i (30% [20-50%]) or (GLP1-RA (10% [5-15%]). Despite treatment optimisation, 30% of responders indicated that hypertension remained uncontrolled (30% (15-40%) vs 18% [10%-25%]) in CKD and CKD patients, respectively). Hyperkalemia was the most frequent barrier to initiate RAS blockers, and dosage reduction was considered in 45% of responders when kalaemia was 5.5-5.9 mmol/L. Conclusions RAS blockers are initiated in most ESH-ECS in CKD patients, but MRA and SGLT2i initiations are less frequent. Hyperkalemia was the main barrier for initiation or adequate dosing of RAS blockade, and RAS blockers' dosage reduction was the usual management.

Efficacy and safety of finerenone in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus complicated by diabetic kidney disease: A retrospective observational study

Aim/introduction

Early therapeutic interventions are necessary to reduce cardiovascular and renal composite endpoints in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Clinical trials have shown that finerenone suppresses cardiovascular and renal composite endpoints by reducing the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) and suppressing the decline in the Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR). However, the efficacy and safety of finerenone in real-world clinical practice remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the reduction in the UACR as an efficacy endpoint as well as changes in eGFR and serum potassium levels as safety endpoints before and after finerenone administration.

Materials and methods

This retrospective observational study collected data from outpatients with T2DM and DKD upon initiation of finerenone treatment and 3 months after treatment. The primary efficacy endpoint was the change in the UACR from the start of finerenone treatment to after 3 months, while the primary safety endpoints were the changes in serum potassium levels and eGFR over the same period.

Results

The mean UACR significantly decreased from 668.6 mg/gCr at the start of finerenone treatment to 367.8 mg/gCr after 3 months (p < 0.001). Contrastingly, serum potassium levels, eGFRs, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, body mass indices, and HbA1c levels showed no significant changes between treatment initiation and 3 months post-treatment (all p > 0.05).

Conclusions

In individuals with T2DM and DKD, finerenone treatment significantly reduced the UACR, with no post-treatment changes in potassium levels or eGFRs.

Trial registration

This trial was registered with the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trial Registry (UMIN000054821).

A human stem cell-derived model reveals pathologic extracellular matrix remodeling in diabetic podocyte injury

Diabetic nephropathy results from chronic (or uncontrolled) hyperglycemia and is the leading cause of kidney failure. The kidney's glomerular podocytes are highly susceptible to diabetic injury and subsequent non-reversible degeneration. We generated a human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell-derived model of diabetic podocytopathy to investigate disease pathogenesis and progression. The model recapitulated hallmarks of podocytopathy that precede proteinuria including retraction of foot processes and podocytopenia (detachment from the extracellular matrix (ECM)). Moreover, hyperglycemia-induced injury to podocytes exacerbated remodeling of the ECM. Specifically, mature podocytes aberrantly increased expression and excessively deposited collagen (IV)α1α1α2 that is normally abundant in the embryonic glomerulus. This collagen (IV) imbalance coincided with dysregulation of lineage-specific proteins, structural abnormalities of the ECM, and podocytopenia - a mechanism not shared with endothelium and is distinct from drug-induced injury. Intriguingly, repopulation of hyperglycemia-injured podocytes on decellularized ECM scaffolds isolated from healthy podocytes attenuated the loss of synaptopodin (a mechanosensitive protein associated with podocyte health). These results demonstrate that human iPS cell-derived podocytes can facilitate in vitro studies to uncover the mechanisms of chronic hyperglycemia and ECM remodeling and guide disease target identification.

Targeting renal damage: The ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/mas axis in chronic kidney disease

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is a crucial factor in chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression, affecting renal function and contributing significantly to renal tissue inflammation and fibrosis. Activation of the classical ACE/Ang II/AT1 axis exacerbates renal damage, while the ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas axis has shown promise in reducing CKD progression in numerous animal models. Recently, the ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas axis has emerged as a promising target for CKD interventions. This review provides a comprehensive review of the pivotal role of this axis in CKD pathogenesis and systematically examines various molecules and pharmaceutical agents targeting this pathway. This review aims to elucidate potential strategies for delaying or halting CKD progression, offering patients more effective treatment options.

Prognosis for Type 1 Diabetes with Diabetic Nephropathy between 2000 and 2020 - Changes in Kidney Function Decline Over Time and Development of Cardiovascular Disease, Kidney Failure, and Mortality

Introduction

Individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and diabetic nephropathy (DN) experience progressive kidney function decline and high risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality. This study explored changes in kidney function decline in new-onset DN between 2000 and 2020 and provided an updated prognosis for risk of kidney failure, CVD, and mortality.

Methods

This is a register-based cohort study in T1D with new-onset DN (severely increased albuminuria) between 2000 and 2020 at Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Denmark. Data were derived from electronic health records and national registers. Kidney function development was expressed as trajectories of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and measured GFR (mGFR) using mixed-effects models. The prognosis was presented in probabilities of developing complications, stratified by sex, prior CVD, and risk factor control by using simulations based on Poisson regression analysis.

Results

The cohort comprised 591 individuals with median (interquartile range [IQR]) age at DN onset of 53 (39-66) years and 57% were male. In 283 participants, mGFR were available. Plots of eGFR trajectories illustrated tendencies toward higher eGFR in more recent years; however, this was not confirmed in mGFR trajectories. Poor risk factor control, prior CVD, and male sex impacted mortality and morbidity rates negatively. For men and women with fair risk factor control and no prior CVD, the 10-year mortality rate from onset of DN was 28% and 26%, respectively. For men and women with poor risk factor control and CVD prior to DN onset, the 10-year-mortality rate was 62% for each sex.

Conclusion

The results do not support an improved prognosis for T1D and DN, emphasizing the urgent need for new therapeutic approaches.

A randomized phase 2b trial examined the effects of the glucagon-like peptide-1 and glucagon receptor agonist cotadutide on kidney outcomes in patients with diabetic kidney disease

Cotadutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucagon receptor agonist that may improve kidney function in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). In this phase 2b study, patients with T2D and CKD (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] of 20 or more and under 90 mL/min per 1.73 m2 and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio [UACR] over 50 mg/g) were randomized 1:1:1:1:1 to 26 weeks' treatment with standard of care plus subcutaneous cotadutide uptitrated to 100, 300, or 600 μg, or placebo daily (double-blind), or the GLP-1 agonist semaglutide 1 mg once weekly (open-label).The co-primary endpoints were absolute and percentage change versus placebo in UACR from baseline to the end of week 14. Among 248 randomized patients, mean age 67.1 years, 19% were female, mean eGFR was 55.3 mL/min per 1.73 m2, geometric mean was UACR 205.5 mg/g (coefficient of variation 270.0), and 46.8% were receiving concomitant sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors. Cotadutide dose-dependently reduced UACR from baseline to the end of week 14, reaching significance at 300 μg (-43.9% [95% confidence interval -54.7 to -30.6]) and 600 μg (-49.9% [-59.3 to -38.4]) versus placebo; with effects sustained at week 26. Serious adverse events were balanced across arms. Safety and tolerability of cotadutide 600 μg were comparable to semaglutide. Thus, our study shows that in patients with T2D and CKD, cotadutide significantly reduced UACR on top of standard of care with an acceptable tolerability profile, suggesting kidney protective benefits that need confirmation in a larger study.

Peer-to-peer training among health care professionals working in dialysis clinics: an education approach from the GoodRENal project

BACKGROUND

Lifestyle interventions aiming to improve dietary habits, increase physical activity level, and improve emotional well-being can positively impact clinical outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Educational material for health care professionals working with CKD patients that focuses on why and how to promote lifestyle changes is lacking. The present study aims to depict the material and dissemination methods for the peer-to-peer training program developed for health care professionals working in the dialysis clinics of the four countries engaged in the GoodRENal project: Spain, Greece, Sweden, and Belgium.

METHODS

This is an ERASMUS + project funded by the European Union (number 2020-1-ES01-KA2014-083141, http://goodrenal.eu/ ) named GoodRENal. The educational material was developed in English by a multidisciplinary team integrating the GoodRENal project (dietitian, physiotherapist, psychologist, and nephrologist). The material was then translated to Greek, Spanish, Swedish and Dutch and is available for download at the GoodRENal webpage ( https://goodrenal.es/results-3/ ). After training, the health care professionals filled in an anonymous questionnaire regarding their degree of satisfaction with the training.

RESULTS

In total, 138 health care professionals in the four dialysis clinics joined the peer-to-peer training, representing 50% to 92% of the health care professionals in each clinic. From the total sample, 78 health care professionals responded to the satisfaction questionnaire. The answers showed that most participants were very satisfied or satisfied with the peer-to-peer training and that they found this approach useful in their clinical practice.

CONCLUSION

The educational material developed for health care professionals working with patients on hemodialysis (HD) obtained good satisfaction scores from the participants.

A comprehensive review of biomarker research in diabetic nephropathy from a global bibliometric and visualization perspective

BACKGROUND

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a common complication of diabetes, which is prone to develop into end-stage renal disease, and early diagnosis and treatment is the key to effective management of DN. Biomarkers have important clinical significance in the diagnosis and treatment of DN and have attracted extensive attention from researchers in recent years. The aim of this study was to visualize the field of biomarker research in DN through bibliometric analysis, to summarize the current status and predict future trends of this field, with a view to providing valuable insights for scholars and policy makers.

METHODS

Literature search and data collection from Web of Science Core Collection. Calculations and visualizations were performed using Microsoft Excel, VOSviewer, Bibliometrix R-package, and CiteSpace.

RESULTS

We identified 1274 publications about biomarker research in DN from 1995 to November 01, 2023, with a steady increase in annual publications. China, Steno Diabetes Center in Denmark, and Frontiers in Endocrinology were the most productive country, institution, and journal, respectively; Mischak, Harald was both the most productive and highly cited author, and Kidney International was the most cited journal. The high frequency keywords were "albuminuria," "chronic kidney disease" and "expression." In addition, "macrophage," "fibrosis" and "omics" are potentially promising topics.

CONCLUSION

Our study comprehensively and visually summarized the important findings of global biomarker research in DN and revealed the structure, hotspots, and evolutionary trends in this field. It would inspire subsequent studies from a macroscopic perspective and provide a basis for rational allocation of resources and identification of collaborations among researchers.

Clinical outcomes for femoral tunneled-cuffed hemodialysis catheters with different tip positions: A single-center retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Tunneled-cuffed catheter (TCC) reaching the mid-atrium has been demonstrated to be associated with improved catheter survival. However, whether similar conclusions can be made for femoral TCC reaching the inferior vena cava (IVC) remains unknown.

METHODS

Data from 47 patients with end-stage renal disease receiving right femoral TCC were retrospectively collected and analyzed. The primary patency, catheter dysfunction, and TCC-associated infection rate were compared between patients with TCC tip at the IVC and those with TCC tip at non-IVC.

RESULTS

TCC tips were located at the IVC in 26 patients and non-IVC in 21 patients. The technical success rates for both groups were 100%. The primary patency of the former group were significantly higher than those of the latter group at 3 months (92.3% vs 61.9%, p = 0.011), 6 months (80.8% vs 52.4%, p = 0.017), and 12 months (50.0% vs 28.5%, p = 0.024) follow-up, respectively. Kaplan-Meier curve analysis demonstrated significantly different catheter dysfunction-free survival between the two groups (log-rank p = 0.017). The overall TCC-associated infection rate was similar between the two groups (7.7% vs 9.5%, p = 0.82).

CONCLUSION

Femoral TCC with tips at IVC was associated with higher primary patency, lower catheter dysfunction but similar TCC-associated infection rate as compared with those at non-IVC.

Objective Measures of Cardiometabolic Risk and Advanced Fibrosis Risk Progression in Primary Care Patients With Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease

BACKGROUND

We examined the association of objective measures of cardiometabolic risk with progression to a high-risk for advanced fibrosis in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) at initially low- and indeterminate-risk for advanced fibrosis.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of primary care patients with MASLD between 2012 and 2021. We evaluated patients with MASLD and low- or indeterminate-risk Fibrosis-4 Index (FIB-4) scores and followed them until the outcome of a high-risk FIB-4 (≥2.67), or the end of the study period. Exposures of interest were body mass index, systolic blood pressure, hemoglobin A1c, cholesterol, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and smoking status. Variables were categorized by the threshold for primary care therapy intensification. Unadjusted and adjusted Cox regression models were developed for the outcome of time to a high-risk FIB-4 value.

RESULTS

The cohort included 1347 patients with a mean follow-up of 3.6 years (SD 2.7). Of the cohort, 258 (19%) had a subsequent FIB-4 > 2.67. In the fully adjusted Cox regression models, mean systolic blood pressure ≥ 150 mm Hg (1.57; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02-2.41) and glomerular filtration rate ≤ 59 ml/min (hazard ratio 2.78; 95%CI 2.17-3.58) were associated with an increased hazard of a high-risk FIB-4, while receiving a statin prescription (hazard ratio 0.51; 95%CI 0.39-0.66) was associated with a lower risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Nearly 1 in 5 primary care patients with MASLD transitioned to a high-risk FIB-4 score during 3.6 years of follow-up, and uncontrolled blood pressure and reduced kidney function were associated with an increased hazard of a FIB-4 at high-risk for advanced fibrosis.

Populationwide Screening for Chronic Kidney Disease: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

Importance

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have changed clinical management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and made populationwide screening for CKD a viable strategy. Optimal age of screening initiation has yet to be evaluated.

Objective

To compare the clinical benefits, costs, and cost-effectiveness of population-wide CKD screening at different initiation ages and screening frequencies.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cost-effectiveness study used a previously published decision-analytic Markov cohort model that simulated progression of CKD among US adults from age 35 years and older and was calibrated to population-level data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Effectiveness of SGLT2 inhibitors was derived from the Dapagliflozin and Prevention of Adverse Outcomes in Chronic Kidney Disease (DAPA-CKD) trial. Mortality, quality-of-life weights, and cost estimates were obtained from published cohort studies, randomized clinical trials, and US Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services data. Analyses were performed from June 2023 through September 2024.

Exposures

One-time or periodic (every 10 or 5 years) screening for albuminuria, initiated at ages between 35 and 75 years, with and without addition of SGLT2 inhibitors to conventional CKD therapy (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Cumulative incidence of kidney failure requiring kidney replacement therapy (KRT); life years, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), lifetime health care costs (2024 US currency), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios discounted at 3% annually.

Results

For those aged 35 years, starting screening at age 55 years, and continuing every 5 years through age 75 years, combined with SGLT2 inhibitors, decreased the cumulative incidence of kidney failure requiring KRT from 2.4% to 1.9%, increased life expectancy by 0.13 years, and cost $128 400 per QALY gained. Although initiation of screening every 5 years at age 35 or 45 years yielded greater gains in population-wide health benefits, these strategies cost more than $200 000 per additional QALY gained. The comparative values of starting screening at different ages were sensitive to the cost and effectiveness of SGLT2 inhibitors; if SGLT2 inhibitor prices drop due to patent expirations, screening at age 55 years continued to be cost-effective even if SGLT2 inhibitor effectiveness were 30% lower than in the base case.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study found that, based on conventional benchmarks for cost-effectiveness in medicine, initiating population-wide CKD screening with SGLT2 inhibitors at age 55 years would be cost-effective.

Health-related quality of life of people with type 1 diabetes: An IMI2 SOPHIA post hoc analysis of FUTURE and ADJUNCT-ONE

AIM

To characterize and stratify health-related quality of life in individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D) using body mass index (BMI) and clustering analysis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Baseline data on individuals with T1D were pooled from two studies. A post hoc analysis of health-related quality of life, measured using the 36-item Short-Form questionnaire, was performed, referenced to the 2010 US general population. Descriptive statistics were presented for the pooled cohort and per BMI category. K-means clustering was performed. One-way analysis of variance was conducted to examine differences in clinical characteristics between clusters.

RESULTS

The pooled cohort consisted of 2256 individuals with T1D (age: 45.4 ± 15.0 years, BMI: 26.2 ± 4.6 kg/m2, diabetes duration: 22.7 ± 13.5 years). All quality-of-life domains were slightly lower than 50(the general population's mean), except for vitality. Individuals with a BMI ≥30 kg/m2 reported lower scores for bodily pain, physical functioning, general health, and vitality. A first cluster with a high and a second cluster with a low quality of life were identified, with significant differences in the mental (Cluster 1: 53.8 ± 6.8 vs. Cluster 2: 39.5 ± 10.7; p < 0.001) and physical component summary scores (Cluster 1: 49.6 ± 6.3 vs. Cluster 2: 35.2 ± 12.0; p < 0.001), which exceeded differences found between BMI categories.

CONCLUSIONS

In our population of people living with T1D, higher BMI may have adversely impacted physical domains of quality of life, but larger differences between the high- and low-quality-of-life cluster indicate that more factors play a role.

Comparative renal outcomes of matched cohorts of patients with type 2 diabetes receiving SGLT2 inhibitors or GLP-1 receptor agonists under routine care

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

We compared the effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors (SGLT2i) and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) on renal outcomes in individuals with type 2 diabetes, focusing on the changes in eGFR and albuminuria.

METHODS

This was a multicentre retrospective observational study on new users of diabetes medications. Participant characteristics were assessed before and after propensity score matching. The primary endpoint, change in eGFR, was analysed using mixed-effects models. Secondary endpoints included categorical eGFR-based outcomes and changes in albuminuria. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed to assess robustness of the findings.

RESULTS

After matching, 5701 participants/group were included. Participants were predominantly male, aged 61 years, with a 10 year duration of diabetes, a baseline HbA1c of 64 mmol/mol (8.0%) and BMI of 33 kg/m2. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) was present in 23% of participants. During a median of 2.1 years, from a baseline of 87 ml/min per 1.73 m2, eGFR remained higher in the SGLT2i group compared with the GLP-1RA group throughout the observation period by 1.2 ml/min per 1.73 m2. No differences were detected in albuminuria change. The SGLT2i group exhibited lower rates of worsening CKD class and favourable changes in BP compared with the GLP-1RA group, despite lesser HbA1c decline. SGLT2i also reduced eGFR decline better than GLP-1RA in participants without baseline CKD.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

In individuals with type 2 diabetes, treatment with SGLT2i was associated with better preservation of renal function compared with GLP-1RA, as evidenced by slower decline in eGFR. These findings reinforce SGLT2i as preferred agents for renal protection in this patient population.

A review of the latest real-world evidence studies in diabetic kidney disease: What have we learned about clinical practice and the clinical effectiveness of interventions?

Diabetic nephropathy, also known as diabetic kidney disease (DKD), remains a challenge in clinical practice as this is the major cause of kidney failure worldwide. Clinical trials do not answer all the questions raised in clinical practice and real-world evidence provides complementary insights from randomized controlled trials. Real-life longitudinal data highlight the need for improved screening and management of diabetic nephropathy in primary care. Adherence to the recommended guidelines for comprehensive care appears to be suboptimal in clinical practice in patients with DKD. Barriers to the initiation of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors for patients with DKD persist in clinical practice, in particular for the elderly. Attainment of blood pressure targets often remains an issue. Initiation of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) in routine clinical practice is associated with a reduced risk of albuminuria progression and a possible beneficial effect on kidney function. Real-world evidence confirms a beneficial effect of SGLT2 inhibitors on the decline of glomerular filtration, even in the absence of albuminuria, with a lower risk of acute kidney injury events compared to GLP-1RA use. In addition, SGLT2 inhibitors confer a lower risk of hyperkalaemia after initiation compared with dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors in patients with DKD. Data from a large population indicate that diuretic treatment increases the risk of a significant decline in glomerular filtration rate in the first few weeks of treatment after SGLT2 inhibitor initiation. The perspective for a global approach targeting multifaceted criteria for diabetic individuals with DKD is emerging based on real-world evidence but there is still a long way to go to achieve this goal.

Genetic deletion of calcium-independent phospholipase A2γ protects mice from diabetic nephropathy

Calcium-independent phospholipase A2γ (iPLA2γ) is localized in glomerular epithelial cells (GECs)/podocytes at the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum, and can mediate release of arachidonic acid and prostanoids. Global knockout (KO) of iPLA2γ in mice did not cause albuminuria, but resulted in mitochondrial structural abnormalities and enhanced autophagy in podocytes. In acute glomerulonephritis, deletion of iPLA2γ exacerbated albuminuria and podocyte injury. This study addresses the role of iPLA2γ in diabetic nephropathy. Hyperglycemia was induced in male mice with streptozotocin (STZ). STZ induced progressive albuminuria in control mice (over 21 weeks), while albuminuria did not increase in iPLA2γ KO mice, remaining comparable to untreated groups. Despite similar exposure to STZ, the STZ-treated iPLA2γ KO mice developed a lower level of hyperglycemia compared to STZ-treated control. However, there was no significant correlation between the degree of hyperglycemia and albuminuria, and even iPLA2γ KO mice with greatest hyperglycemia did not develop significant albuminuria. Mortality at 21 weeks was greatest in diabetic control mice. Sclerotic glomeruli and enlarged glomerular capillary loops were increased significantly in diabetic control compared to diabetic iPLA2γ KO mice. Glomerular matrix was expanded in diabetic mice, with control exceeding iPLA2γ KO. Glomerular autophagy (increased LC3-II and decreased p62) was enhanced in diabetic iPLA2γ KO mice compared to control. Treatment of cultured GECs with H2O2 resulted in increased cell death in control GECs compared to iPLA2γ KO, and the increase was slightly greater in medium with high glucose compared to low glucose. H2O2-induced cell death was not affected by inhibition of prostanoid production with indomethacin. In conclusion, mice with global deletion of iPLA2γ are protected from developing chronic glomerular injury in diabetic nephropathy. This is associated with increased glomerular autophagy.