Thiazolidinediones ameliorate diabetic nephropathy via cell cycle-dependent mechanisms

Role of Metabolic Sensor GPR81/HCAR1 in Diabetic Podocytes: Downregulated Lipolysis Results in the Deterioration of Glomerular Filtration Barrier

The effacement of podocyte foot processes, which form slit diaphragms, are common features of proteinuria. Exploring podocyte energy metabolism, especially under diabetic conditions, may offer insights into the pathogenesis of diabetic kidney disease. Lipid accumulation is recognized as a cause of podocyte cytoskeleton remodeling and insulin resistance. Thus, the role of the metabolic sensor G-protein-coupled receptor 81 (GPR81) was examined in the molecular pathway of lipid accumulation in podocytes under hyperglycemic conditions. It was discovered that hyperglycemia downregulated the cyclic adenosine monophosphate/protein kinase A signaling pathway, which downregulated the expression of adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL). Perilipin 1 was also downregulated; simultaneously, lipid droplet accumulation was enhanced. Glycerol and free fatty acid concentrations were also reduced, providing evidence of lipolysis inhibition. Interestingly, the expression of GPR81 decreased under hyperglycemia conditions despite the evidence of its activation, indicating strict lipolysis regulation. More importantly, cell functions were altered, reflected by an increase in albumin permeability and rearrangement of the actin cytoskeleton. The effect of ATGL activity inhibition on lipolysis, actin cytoskeleton arrangement, and permeability of the podocyte monolayer was investigated. The results were similar to GPR81 downregulation. Altogether, the present data indicate that GPR81 is likely a crucial part of the lipid sensing system, and its alterations during hyperglycemia might contribute to glomerular filtration barrier deterioration in diabetic kidney disease.

Combination of dapagliflozin and pioglitazone lacks superiority against monotherapy in streptozotocin-induced nephropathy

Oxidative stress and apoptosis are highly engaged in development of diabetic nephropathy (DN). In monotherapy, dapagliflozin and pioglitazone positively modulate target organ damage even independently of their hypoglycaemic effect. This study evaluated whether a simultaneous PPARγ activation and SGLT cotransporter inhibition offer superior protection against DN-related oxidative and apoptotic processes in a T1DM rat model. Diabetes was induced in Wistar rats using streptozotocin (55 mg/kg, i.p.). The rats received daily chow containing dapagliflozin (10 mg/kg), pioglitazone (12 mg/kg) or their combination. Six weeks after STZ administration, histological and molecular analyses were performed in excised kidneys. STZ-induced DN was demonstrated by the propagation of apoptotic (Bax, p53, Casp3) and oxidative reactions (Gp91phox, MnSOD) and disrupted nitric oxide signalling (eNOS, Hsp90, Cav1). Kidney damage molecule expression (Kim1, Nphs1) revealed a deceleration of kidney damage by pioglitazone and dapagliflozine monotherapies. The monotherapy also reduced apoptosis, oxidative stress, and partially restored NO signalling. The combined therapy ameliorated glomerulosclerosis but in other measured parameters, it reached the effect of the monotherapies except for Hsp90 expression modulation. Both dapagliflozin and pioglitazone exert protective character in kidneys when used in monotherapy. The combined therapy does not exhibit an expected additive effect within modulating oxidative stress, NO signalling or apoptosis.

Kidney lipid dysmetabolism and lipid droplet accumulation in chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health problem with rising incidence and prevalence. Among several pathogenetic mechanisms responsible for disease progression, lipid accumulation in the kidney parenchyma might drive inflammation and fibrosis, as has been described in fatty liver diseases. Lipids and their metabolites have several important structural and functional roles, as they are constituents of cell and organelle membranes, serve as signalling molecules and are used for energy production. However, although lipids can be stored in lipid droplets to maintain lipid homeostasis, lipid accumulation can become pathogenic. Understanding the mechanisms linking kidney parenchymal lipid accumulation to CKD of metabolic or non-metabolic origin is challenging, owing to the tremendous variety of lipid species and their functional diversity across different parenchymal cells. Nonetheless, multiple research reports have begun to emphasize the effect of dysregulated kidney lipid metabolism in CKD progression. For example, altered cholesterol and fatty acid metabolism contribute to glomerular and tubular cell injury. Newly developed lipid-targeting agents are being tested in clinical trials in CKD, raising expectations for further therapeutic development in this field.

The miR-143/145 cluster induced by TGF-β1 suppresses Wilms' tumor 1 expression in cultured human podocytes

Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 contributes to podocyte injury in various glomerular diseases, including diabetic kidney disease, probably at least in part by attenuating the expression of Wilms' tumor 1 (WT1). However, the precise mechanisms remain to be defined. We performed miRNA microarray analysis in a human podocyte cell line cultured with TGF-β1 to examine the roles of miRNAs in podocyte damage. The microarray analysis identified miR-143-3p as the miRNA with the greatest increase following exposure to TGF-β1. Quantitative RT-PCR confirmed a significant increase in the miR-143-3p/145-5p cluster in TGF-β1-supplemented cultured podocytes and demonstrated upregulation of miR-143-3p in the glomeruli of mice with type 2 diabetes. Ectopic expression of miR-143-3p and miR-145-5p suppressed WT1 expression in cultured podocytes. Furthermore, inhibition of Smad or mammalian target of rapamycin signaling each partially reversed the TGF-β1-induced increase in miR-143-3p/145-5p and decrease in WT1. In conclusion, TGF-β1 induces expression of miR-143-3p/145-5p in part through Smad and mammalian target of rapamycin pathways, and miR-143-3p/145-5p reduces expression of WT1 in cultured human podocytes. miR-143-3p/145-5p may contribute to TGF-β1-induced podocyte injury.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study by miRNA microarray analysis demonstrated that miR-143-3p expression was upregulated in cultured human podocytes following exposure to transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1. Furthermore, we report that the miR-143/145 cluster contributes to decreased expression of Wilms' tumor 1, which represents a possible mechanism for podocyte injury induced by TGF-β1. This study is important because it presents a novel mechanism for TGF-β-associated glomerular diseases, including diabetic kidney disease (DKD), and suggests potential therapeutic strategies targeting miR-143-3p/145-5p.

Diabetic Nephropathy and Gaseous Modulators

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) remains the leading cause of vascular morbidity and mortality in diabetes patients. Despite the progress in understanding the diabetic disease process and advanced management of nephropathy, a number of patients still progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The underlying mechanism still needs to be clarified. Gaseous signaling molecules, so-called gasotransmitters, such as nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), have been shown to play an essential role in the development, progression, and ramification of DN depending on their availability and physiological actions. Although the studies on gasotransmitter regulations of DN are still emerging, the evidence revealed an aberrant level of gasotransmitters in patients with diabetes. In studies, different gasotransmitter donors have been implicated in ameliorating diabetic renal dysfunction. In this perspective, we summarized an overview of the recent advances in the physiological relevance of the gaseous molecules and their multifaceted interaction with other potential factors, such as extracellular matrix (ECM), in the severity modulation of DN. Moreover, the perspective of the present review highlights the possible therapeutic interventions of gasotransmitters in ameliorating this dreaded disease.

Identification of Structural and Molecular Signatures Mediating Adaptive Changes in the Mouse Kidney in Response to Pregnancy

Pregnancy is characterized by adaptations in the function of several maternal body systems that ensure the development of the fetus whilst maintaining health of the mother. The renal system is responsible for water and electrolyte balance, as well as waste removal. Thus, it is imperative that structural and functional changes occur in the kidney during pregnancy. However, our knowledge of the precise morphological and molecular mechanisms occurring in the kidney during pregnancy is still very limited. Here, we investigated the changes occurring in the mouse kidney during pregnancy by performing an integrated analysis involving histology, gene and protein expression assays, mass spectrometry profiling and bioinformatics. Data from non-pregnant and pregnant mice were used to identify critical signalling pathways mediating changes in the maternal kidneys. We observed an expansion of renal medulla due to proliferation and infiltration of interstitial cellular constituents, as well as alterations in the activity of key cellular signalling pathways (e.g., AKT, AMPK and MAPKs) and genes involved in cell growth/metabolism (e.g., Cdc6, Foxm1 and Rb1) in the kidneys during pregnancy. We also generated plasma and urine proteomic profiles, identifying unique proteins in pregnancy. These proteins could be used to monitor and study potential mechanisms of renal adaptations during pregnancy and disease.

Effects of turmeric (Curcuma longa) and its constituent (curcumin) on the metabolic syndrome: An updated review

Metabolic syndrome (MS) involves people with the following risk factors: obesity, hypertension, high glucose level and hyperlipidemia. It can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The prevalence of MS in the world's adult population is about 20%-25%. Today, there is much care to use medicinal plants. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) as well as curcumin which is derived from the rhizome of the plant, has been shown beneficial effects on different components of MS. Thus, the purpose of this manuscript was to introduce different in vitro, in vivo and human studies regarding the effect of turmeric and its constituent on MS. Moreover, different mechanisms of action by which this plant overcomes MS have been introduced. Based on studies, turmeric and its bioactive component, curcumin, due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, have antidiabetic effects through increasing insulin release, antihyperlipidemic effects by increasing fatty acid uptake, anti-obesity effects by decreasing lipogenesis, and antihypertensive effects by increasing nitric oxide. According to several in vivo, in vitro and human studies, it can be concluded that turmeric or curcumin has important values as a complementary therapy in MS. However, more clinical trials should be done to confirm these effects.

17β-estradiol rescues the damage of thiazolidinedione on chicken Sertoli cell proliferation via adiponectin

Thiazolidinedione (TZD) is an oral anti-diabetic drug that exhibits some side effects on the male reproductive system by interfering with the steroidogenesis and androgenic activity and also shows anti-proliferative effect on several cell types. This study investigated the effect of TZD on immature chicken Sertoli cell (SC) proliferation and the potential mechanism by which 17β-estradiol regulated this process. Chicken SC viability was investigated under different treatment concentration and time of TZD. 17β-estradiol (0.001 μM, 24 h) was added to analyze its effects on TZD-mediated cell viability, cell metabolic activity, cell growth, cell cycle progression, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, antioxidant enzyme activity, mitochondria activity, oxygen consumption rate, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) level, and mitochondrial respiratory chain enzyme activity, adiponectin expression and several cell proliferation-related genes mRNA and protein levels. We performed the microRNA (miRNA) array to find TZD-induced differentially expressed miRNAs and validated whether miR-1577 can target on adiponectin via the dual luciferase reporter assay, as well as verified the effect of adiponectin addition with different concentrations on the SC viability. Further, SCs were transfected with miR-1577 agomir (a double-stranded synthetic miRNA mimic) in the presence or absence of TZD and antagomir (a single-stranded synthetic miRNA inhibitor) in the presence or absence of 17β-estradiol to analyze whether miR-1577 was involved in TZD-mediated SC proliferation and whether 17β-estradiol regulated this process. Results showed that TZD significantly inhibited SC viability, cell metabolic activity, cell growth, and cell cycle progression, while increased adiponectin level and ROS generation. TZD-treated SCs presented decreases of antioxidant enzyme activity, mitochondria activity, basal and maximal respiration, ATP production and level, mitochondrial respiratory chain enzyme activity, and mRNA and protein expressions of several cell proliferation-related genes, as well as the significant alteration of miRNA expressions (a total number of 55 miRNAs were up-regulated whereas 53 miRNAs down-regulated). Whereas, 17β-estradiol played a positive role in chicken SC proliferation and rescued the damage of TZD on SC proliferation by up-regulating miR-1577 expression whose target gene was validated to be the adiponectin. In addition, exogenous adiponectin (more than 1 μg/ml) treatment exhibited a significant inhibition on the SC viability. Transfection of miR-1577 agomir promoted the SC proliferation via down-expressed adiponectin, and increased the mitochondrial function and cell proliferation-related gene expression, while TZD weakened the positive effect of miR-1577 agomir on SCs. On the other hand, transfection of miR-1577 antagomir inhibited SC proliferation by producing the opposite effects on above parameters, while 17β-estradiol attenuated the negative effect of miR-1577 antagomir on SCs. These findings suggest down-expressed miR-1577 is involved in the regulation of TZD-inhibited SC proliferation through increasing adiponectin level, and this damage of TZD on the immature chicken SC proliferation can be ameliorated by appropriate dose of exogenous 17β-estradiol treatment. This study provides an insight into the cytoprotective effect of 17β-estradiol on TZD-damaged SC proliferation and may suggest a potential strategy for reducing the risk of SC dysfunction caused by the abuse of TZD.

The efficacy of pioglitazone for renal protection in diabetic kidney disease

There is limited information on the efficacy of pioglitazone in diabetic kidney diseases (DKD). We evaluated whether pioglitazone exerts renal-protective effects in DKD patients. We designed a retrospective cohort study, which included 742 type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with DKD in Taiwan, with eGFR between 30 and 90 ml/min/1.73 m² and UACR level 300–5000 mg/g. Patients not meeting the target range for HbA1c (above 7%) were given additional medication with pioglitazone (n = 111) or received standard care (non-pioglitazone group, n = 631). The primary endpoint was the occurrence of composite renal endpoints, which was defined as sustained eGFR<15 ml/min/1.73 m² (confirmed by two measurements within 90 days); doubling of serum creatinine (compared to baseline); and the presence of hemodialysis or renal transplantation. The median follow-up duration was two years. At baseline, the mean HbA1C levels in the pioglitazone and non-pioglitazone groups were 8.8% and 8.1%, respectively; mean ages were 64.4 and 66.2 years old, respectively; diabetes durations were 14.3 and 12.3 years, respectively. Baseline eGFR showed no significant difference between the pioglitazone and non-pioglitazone groups (55.8 and 58.8 mL/min/1.73 m², respectively). In terms of gender, 63% of patients were male in the pioglitazone group compared with 57% in the non-pioglitazone group. Pioglitazone use did not reduce the risk of composite renal endpoints in DKD patients (HR: 0.97, 95% CI = 0.53–1.77), including persistent eGFR<15 ml/min/1.73 m² (HR = 1.07, 95% CI = 0.46–2.52), doubling of serum creatinine (HR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.53–1.77), or ESRD (HR = 2.58, 95% CI = 0.29–23.04). The results were not changed after various adjustments. A non-significant albuminuria reduction was also noted after pioglitazone prescription in DKD patients. Further randomized controlled studies are needed to establish the effects of pioglitazone definitively.

Sex Differences in Glomerular Protein Expression and Effects of Soy-Based Diet on Podocyte Signaling

Background:

Kidney disease is a major public health issue arising from loss of glomerular podocyte function, and there are considerable sex differences in its prognosis. Evidence suggests a renoprotective effect of estrogen and soy diet-derived phytoestrogens, although the molecular basis for this is poorly understood.

Objective:

Here, we aim to assess sex differences in expression of key proteins associated with podocyte survival and determine the effects of dietary soy on glomerular and podocyte signaling.

Methods:

Male and female FVB mice were fed control, low (1%), and high (20%) doses of isolated soy protein (ISP) in utero and until 100 days of age. Spot urine was collected to measure proteinuria and isolated glomeruli were used to quantify activated and total levels of nephrin, Akt, and ERK1/2. To investigate protective effects of specific soy phytoestrogens, cultured podocytes were treated with or without daidzein and subject to control or high glucose as a model of podocyte injury.

Results:

Nephrin and Akt were elevated at baseline in glomeruli from females compared to males. Both sexes that were fed 1% and 20% ISP displayed robust increases in total glomerular Akt compared to controls, and these effects were more prominent in females. A similar trend at both doses in both sexes was observed with activated Akt and total nephrin. Notably, males exclusively showed increased phosphorylation of nephrin and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) at the 1% ISP dose; however, no overt changes in urinary albumin excretion or podocin levels were observed, suggesting that the soy diets did not impair podocyte function. Finally, in cultured male and female podocytes, daidzein treatment suppressed high glucose-induced ERK activation.

Conclusions:

Together, our findings reveal a putative mechanism to explain the protective influence of sex on kidney disease progression, and they provide further evidence to support a beneficial role for dietary soy in preserving glomerular function.

A Role for Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma Agonists in Counteracting the Degeneration of Cardiovascular Grafts

ABSTRACT

Aortic valve replacement for severe stenosis is a standard procedure in cardiovascular medicine. However, the use of biological prostheses has limitations especially in young patients because of calcifying degeneration, resulting in implant failure. Pioglitazone, a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-gamma) agonist, was shown to decrease the degeneration of native aortic valves. In this study, we aim to examine the impact of pioglitazone on inflammation and calcification of aortic valve conduits (AoC) in a rat model. Cryopreserved AoC (n = 40) were infrarenally implanted into Wistar rats treated with pioglitazone (75 mg/kg chow; n = 20, PIO) or untreated (n = 20, controls). After 4 or 12 weeks, AoC were explanted and analyzed by histology, immunohistology, and polymerase chain reaction. Pioglitazone significantly decreased the expression of inflammatory markers and reduced the macrophage-mediated inflammation in PIO compared with controls after 4 (P = 0.03) and 12 weeks (P = 0.012). Chondrogenic transformation was significantly decreased in PIO after 12 weeks (P = 0.001). Calcification of the intima and media was significantly reduced after 12 weeks in PIO versus controls (intima: P = 0.008; media: P = 0.025). Moreover, echocardiography revealed significantly better functional outcome of the AoC in PIO after 12 weeks compared with control. Interestingly, significantly increased intima hyperplasia could be observed in PIO compared with controls after 12 weeks (P = 0.017). Systemic PPAR-gamma activation prevents inflammation as well as intima and media calcification in AoC and seems to inhibit functional impairment of the implanted aortic valve. To further elucidate the therapeutic role of PPAR-gamma regulation for graft durability, translational studies and long-term follow-up data should be striven for.

GYY4137 Regulates Extracellular Matrix Turnover in the Diabetic Kidney by Modulating Retinoid X Receptor Signaling

Diabetic kidney is associated with an accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) leading to renal fibrosis. Dysregulation of retinoic acid metabolism involving retinoic acid receptors (RARs) and retinoid X receptors (RXRs) has been shown to play a crucial role in diabetic nephropathy (DN). Furthermore, RARs and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) are known to control the RXR-mediated transcriptional regulation of several target genes involved in DN. Recently, RAR and RXR have been shown to upregulate plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), a major player involved in ECM accumulation and renal fibrosis during DN. Interestingly, hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) has been shown to ameliorate adverse renal remodeling in DN. We investigated the role of RXR signaling in the ECM turnover in diabetic kidney, and whether H₂S can mitigate ECM accumulation by modulating PPAR/RAR-mediated RXR signaling. We used wild-type (C57BL/6J), diabetic (C57BL/6-Ins2^Akita/J) mice and mouse mesangial cells (MCs) as experimental models. GYY4137 was used as a H₂S donor. Results showed that in diabetic kidney, the expression of PPARγ was decreased, whereas upregulations of RXRα, RXRβ, and RARγ1 expression were observed. The changes were associated with elevated PAI-1, MMP-9 and MMP-13. In addition, the expressions of collagen IV, fibronectin and laminin were increased, whereas elastin expression was decreased in the diabetic kidney. Excessive collagen deposition was observed predominantly in the peri-glomerular and glomerular regions of the diabetic kidney. Immunohistochemical localization revealed elevated expression of fibronectin and laminin in the glomeruli of the diabetic kidney. GYY4137 reversed the pathological changes. Similar results were observed in in vitro experiments. In conclusion, our data suggest that RXR signaling plays a significant role in ECM turnover, and GYY4137 modulates PPAR/RAR-mediated RXR signaling to ameliorate PAI-1-dependent adverse ECM turnover in DN.

Use of Lipid-Modifying Agents for the Treatment of Glomerular Diseases

Although dyslipidemia is associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD), it is more common in nephrotic syndrome (NS), and guidelines for the management of hyperlipidemia in NS are largely opinion-based. In addition to the role of circulating lipids, an increasing number of studies suggest that intrarenal lipids contribute to the progression of glomerular diseases, indicating that proteinuric kidney diseases may be a form of "fatty kidney disease" and that reducing intracellular lipids could represent a new therapeutic approach to slow the progression of CKD. In this review, we summarize recent progress made in the utilization of lipid-modifying agents to lower renal parenchymal lipid accumulation and to prevent or reduce kidney injury. The agents mentioned in this review are categorized according to their specific targets, but they may also regulate other lipid-relevant pathways.

Pregnane X receptor (PXR) protects against cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury in mice

Cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (CAKI) has been recognized as one of the most serious side effects of cisplatin. Pregnane X receptor (PXR) is a ligand-dependent nuclear receptor and serves as a master regulator of xenobiotic detoxification. Increasing evidence also suggests PXR has many other functions including the regulation of cell proliferation, inflammatory response, and glucose and lipid metabolism. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of PXR in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in mice. CAKI model was performed in wild-type or PXR knockout mice. Pregnenolone 16α‑carbonitrile (PCN), a mouse PXR specific agonist, was used for PXR activation. The renal function, biochemical, histopathological and molecular alterations were examined in mouse blood, urine or renal tissues. Whole transcriptome analysis was performed by RNA sequencing. We found that PXR activation significantly attenuated CAKI as reflected by improved renal function, reduced renal tubular apoptosis, ameliorated oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stress, and suppressed inflammatory gene expression. RNA sequencing analysis revealed that the renoprotective effect of PXR was associated with multiple crucial signaling pathways, especially the PI3K/AKT pathway. In vitro study further revealed that PXR protected against cisplatin-induced apoptosis of cultured proximal tubule cells in a PI3K-dependent manner. Our results demonstrate that PXR activation can preserve renal function in cisplatin-induced AKI and suggest a possibility of PXR as a novel protective target for cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.

Nuclear receptors in podocyte biology and glomerular disease

Nuclear receptors have a broad spectrum of biological functions in normal physiology and in the pathology of various diseases, including glomerular disease. The primary therapies for many glomerular diseases are glucocorticoids, which exert their immunosuppressive and direct podocyte protective effects via the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). As glucocorticoids are associated with important adverse effects and a substantial proportion of patients show resistance to these therapies, the beneficial effects of selective GR modulators are now being explored. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) agonism using thiazolidinediones has potent podocyte cytoprotective and nephroprotective effects. Repurposing of thiazolidinediones or identification of novel PPARγ modulators are potential strategies to treat non-diabetic glomerular disease. Retinoic acid receptor-α is the key mediator of the renal protective effects of retinoic acid, and repair of the endogenous retinoic acid pathway offers another potential therapeutic strategy for glomerular disease. Vitamin D receptor, oestrogen receptor and mineralocorticoid receptor modulators regulate podocyte injury in experimental models. Further studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms of these nuclear receptors, evaluate their synergistic pathways and identify their novel modulators. Here, we focus on the role of nuclear receptors in podocyte biology and non-diabetic glomerular disease.

PPARγ and Its Agonists in Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has become a global healthcare issue. CKD can progress to irreversible end-stage renal diseases (ESRD) or renal failure. The major risk factors for CKD include obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Understanding the key process involved in the disease development may lead to novel interventive strategies, which is currently lagging behind. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) is one of the ligand-activated transcription factor superfamily members and is globally expressed in human tissues. Its agonists such as thiazolidinediones (TZDs) have been applied as effective antidiabetic drugs as they control insulin sensitivity in multiple metabolic tissues. Besides, TZDs exert protective effects in multiple other CKD risk disease contexts. As PPARγ is abundantly expressed in major kidney cells, its physiological roles in those cells have been studied in both cell and animal models. The function of PPARγ in the kidney ranges from energy metabolism, cell proliferation to inflammatory suppression, although major renal side effects of existing agonists (including TZDs) have been reported, which limited their application in treating CKD. In the current review, we systemically assess the function of PPARγ in CKDs and the benefits and current limitations of its agonists in the clinical applications.

Altered Expression of Long Noncoding and Messenger RNAs in Diabetic Nephropathy following Treatment with Rosiglitazone

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is characterized by metabolic disorder and inflammation. However, the regulatory effects that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have on the pathogenesis of DN and on the efficacy of rosiglitazone treatment have yet to be clearly defined. Herein, we performed unbiased RNA sequencing to characterize the transcriptomic profiles in db/db diabetic mouse model with or without rosiglitazone treatment that served to improve the phenotypes of DN. Moreover, RNA-seq profiling revealed that the development of DN caused an upregulation in the expression of 1176 mRNAs and a downregulation in the expression of 1010 mRNAs compared to controls, with the expression of 251 mRNAs being returned to normal following treatment with rosiglitazone. Further, 88 upregulated and 68 downregulated lncRNAs were identified in db/db mice compared to controls, 10 of which had their normal expression restored following treatment with rosiglitazone. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that the primary pathways involved in the pathogenesis of DN, and subsequently in the therapeutic effects of PPARγ, are related to inflammatory and metabolic processes. From bioinformatics analysis, lncRNA-AI838599 emerged as a novel molecular mechanism for rosiglitazone treatment in DN through TNFα-NFκb pathway. These findings may indicate a new molecular regulatory approach for the development of DN therapeutic agents.

Pioglitazone downregulates Twist-1 expression in the kidney and protects renal function of Zucker diabetic fatty rats

AIMS

Renal interstitial fibrosis and glomerulosclerosis are the characteristic presentation of diabetic nephropathy progression. Twist-1 overexpression contributes to renal fibrosis. Previous studies have demonstrated that pioglitazone (PIO), a PPAR-γ agonists, can ameliorate renal fibrosis and protect renal function. However, whether PIO attenuates renal fibrosis and delays diabetic nephropathy progression by regulating Twist-1 expression remains unclear.

METHODS

Male Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: (1) ZDF group, (2) ZDF + PIO group treated with PIO for 10 weeks, (3) ZDF + PIO + GW9662 group treated with GW9662 (a PPAR-γ antagonist) and PIO for 10 weeks. Age-matched Zucker lean rats (ZL group) were used as a control group. Urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) and renal blood flow were measured. Renal histopathology and Twist-1 expression were determined by immunohistochemistry. The protein and mRNA levels of Twist-1 and PPAR-γ were analyzed by Western blot and qRT-PCR.

RESULTS

PIO considerably reduced UACR and improved renal blood flow. This was associated with amelioration of glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial fibrosis evidenced by the expression decrease of collagen I, aquaporin 1, α-SMA, transforming growth factor β1 and nephrin, although glycaemia remained high. Moreover, Twist-1 protein and mRNA expression in kidney of ZDF rats were significantly increased compared with ZL rats and PIO significantly decreased Twist-1 levels.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that PIO can downregulate Twist-1 expression in the kidney, inhibit renal fibrosis and protect renal function in ZDF rats. These PIO-mediated effects are independent of glycemic control.

Psoralen accelerates bone fracture healing by activating both osteoclasts and osteoblasts

Bone fracture healing is a complex, dynamic process that involves various cell types, with osteoclasts and osteoblasts playing indispensable roles. In this study, we found that psoralen, the main active ingredient in Psoralea corylifolia L. fruit extract, enhanced bone fracture healing through activation of osteoclast and osteoblast activity via the ERK signaling pathway. In detail, psoralen promoted receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand-induced osteoclastogenesis, mRNA expression of osteoclast-specific genes, and osteoclastic bone resorption in primary bone marrow-derived macrophages. Meanwhile, psoralen induced osteogenic differentiation by promoting the mRNA expression of the osteoblast differentiation markers alkaline phosphatase, runt-related transcription factor 2, osterix, and osteocalcin. At the molecular level, psoralen preferentially activated ERK1/2 but not JNK or p38 MAPKs. Further experiments revealed that psoralen-induced osteoclast and osteoblast differentiation was abrogated by a specific inhibitor of phosphorylated ERK. In addition, psoralen accelerated bone fracture healing in a rat tibial fracture model, and the numbers of osteoclasts and osteoblasts were increased in psoralen-treated fracture callus. Taken together, our findings indicate that psoralen accelerates bone fracture healing through activation of osteoclasts and osteoblasts via ERK signaling and has potential as a novel drug in the orthopedic clinic for the treatment of bone fractures.-Zhang, T., Han, W., Zhao, K., Yang, W., Lu, X., Jia, Y., Qin, A., Qian, Y. Psoralen accelerates bone fracture healing by activating both osteoclasts and osteoblasts.

Tea Polypeptide Ameliorates Diabetic Nephropathy through RAGE and NF-κB Signaling Pathway in Type 2 Diabetes Mice

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a major complication of type 2 diabetes (T2D), which is a key determinant of mortality in diabetic patients. Developing new therapeutic drugs which can not only control T2D but also prevent the development of DN is of great significance. We studied the therapeutic potential of Cuiyu tea polypeptides (TP), natural bioactive peptides isolated from a type of green tea, against DN and its underlying molecular mechanisms. TP (1000 mg/kg bw/day, p.o.) administration for 5 weeks significantly reduced the fasting blood glucose by 52.04 ± 9.23% in the high fat diet/streptozocin (HFD/STZ)-induced (30 mg/kg bw) diabetic mice. Compared to the model group, the serum insulin level of the TP group was decreased by 25.54 ± 6.06%, while at the same time, the HOMA-IR, HOMA-IS, and lipid levels showed different degrees of recovery ( p < 0.05). Moreover, in TP group mice the total urinary protein, creatinine, and urine nitrogen, all which can reflect the damage degree of the glomerular filtration function to a certain extent, dramatically declined by 34.51 ± 2.65%, 42.24 ± 15.24%, and 80.30 ± 6.01% compared to the model group, respectively. Mechanistically, TP stimulated the polyol PKCζ/JNK/NF-κB/TNF-α/iNOS and AGEs/RAGE/TGF-β1 pathways, upregulated the expression of podocin in the glomeruli, and decreased the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These results strongly indicate the therapeutic potential of TP against DN.

Cracking novel shared targets between epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease: need of the hour

Epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are interconnected. It is well known that seizures are linked with cognitive impairment, and there are various shared etiologies between epilepsy and AD. The connection between hyperexcitability of neurons and cognitive dysfunction in the progression of AD or epileptogenesis plays a vital role for improving selection of treatment for both diseases. Traditionally, seizures occur less frequently and in later stages of age in patients with AD which in turn implies that neurodegeneration causes seizures. The role of seizures in early stages of pathogenesis of AD is still an issue to be resolved. So, it is well timed to analyze the common pathways involved in pathophysiology of AD and epilepsy. The present review focuses on similar potential underlying mechanisms which may be related to the causes of seizures in epilepsy and cognitive impairment in AD. The proposed review will focus on many possible newer targets like abnormal expression of various enzymes like GSK-3β, PP2A, PKC, tau hyperphosphorylation, MMPs, caspases, neuroinflammation and oxidative stress associated with number of neurodegenerative diseases linked with epilepsy. The brief about the prospective line of treatment of both diseases will also be discussed in the present review.

Renoprotective Effect of Danhong Injection on Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats through a Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor γ Mediated Pathway

The aim of the study was to investigate the protective effect of Danhong injection (DHI) on diabetic kidney disease and explore the potential mechanisms. Diabetic kidney disease was induced by unilateral nephrectomy, high-fat diet, and streptozotocin. After DHI administration, the renal function deterioration, 24-hour total urine protein excretion, and elevated serum lipid levels were reversed to some extent, and the renal pathological damage was also ameliorated. The KEGG pathway enrichment analysis demonstrated that the PPARγ signal pathway was significantly upregulated in DH group. And the increased expressions of PPARγ and UCP-1 were confirmed by immunohistochemistry, whereas the p38MAPK was significantly decreased. These data show that DHI could delay the progress of DKD, and the effect might be achieved in part by activating the PPARγ signaling pathway.

CAPE-pNO2 ameliorated diabetic nephropathy through regulating the Akt/NF-κB/ iNOS pathway in STZ-induced diabetic mice

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the most severe complications of diabetes mellitus. This study aimed to determine the effects and potential mechanism of caffeic acid para-nitro phenethyl ester (CAPE-pNO₂), a derivative of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), on DN; In vivo, intraperitoneal injections of streptozotocin (STZ) were used to induce diabetes in mice; then, the mice were intraperitoneally injected daily with CAPE or CAPE-pNO₂ for 8 weeks. The mice were sacrificed, and blood samples and kidney tissues were collected to measure biological indexes. The results showed that CAPE and CAPE-pNO₂ could lower serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, 24-h albumin excretion, malondialdehyde and myeloperoxidase levels and increase superoxide dismutase activity in diabetic mice. According to HE, PAS and Masson staining, these two compounds ameliorated structural changes and fibrosis in the kidneys. In addition, the immunohistochemical and western blot results showed that CAPE and CAPE-pNO₂ inhibited inflammation through the Akt/NF-κB pathway and prevented renal fibrosis through the TGF-β/Smad pathway. In vitro, CAPE and CAPE-pNO₂ inhibited glomerular mesangial cell (GMC) proliferation, arrested cell cycle progression and suppressed ROS generation. These compounds also inhibited ECM accumulation via regulating the TGF-β1, which was a similar effect to that of the NF-κB inhibitor PDTC. More importantly, CAPE and CAPE-pNO₂ could up-regulate nitric oxide synthase expression in STZ-induced diabetic mice and HG-induced GMCs. CAPE-pNO₂ had stronger effects than CAPE both in vivo and in vitro. These data suggest that CAPE-pNO₂ ameliorated DN by suppressing oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis via the Akt/NF-κB/ iNOS pathway.

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ): A master gatekeeper in CNS injury and repair

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) is a widely expressed ligand-modulated transcription factor that governs the expression of genes involved in inflammation, redox equilibrium, trophic factor production, insulin sensitivity, and the metabolism of lipids and glucose. Synthetic PPARγ agonists (e.g. thiazolidinediones) are used to treat Type II diabetes and have the potential to limit the risk of developing brain injuries such as stroke by mitigating the influence of comorbidities. If brain injury develops, PPARγ serves as a master gatekeeper of cytoprotective stress responses, improving the chances of cellular survival and recovery of homeostatic equilibrium. In the acute injury phase, PPARγ directly restricts tissue damage by inhibiting the NFκB pathway to mitigate inflammation and stimulating the Nrf2/ARE axis to neutralize oxidative stress. During the chronic phase of acute brain injuries, PPARγ activation in injured cells culminates in the repair of gray and white matter, preservation of the blood-brain barrier, reconstruction of the neurovascular unit, resolution of inflammation, and long-term functional recovery. Thus, PPARγ lies at the apex of cell fate decisions and exerts profound effects on the chronic progression of acute injury conditions. Here, we review the therapeutic potential of PPARγ in stroke and brain trauma and highlight the novel role of PPARγ in long-term tissue repair. We describe its structure and function and identify the genes that it targets. PPARγ regulation of inflammation, metabolism, cell fate (proliferation/differentiation/maturation/survival), and many other processes also has relevance to other neurological diseases. Therefore, PPARγ is an attractive target for therapies against a number of progressive neurological disorders.

The cellular selection between apoptosis and autophagy: roles of vitamin D, glucose and immune response in diabetic nephropathy

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Apoptosis, autophagy and cell cycle arrest are cellular responses to injury which are supposed to play fundamental roles in initiation and progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN). The aims of the present study is to shed light on the potential effects of vitamin D analog 22-oxacalcitriol (OCT) on different cell responses during DN, and the possible interplay between both glucose, immune system and vitamin D in determining the cell fate.

METHOD

All rats were randomly allocated into one of three groups: control, vehicle-treated DN group and OCT-treated DN group. Eight weeks after induction of diabetes, the rats were killed. Fasting blood glucose levels, serum 25 (OH) D, renal functions, cytokines and gene expression of autophagy, apoptotic and cell cycle arrest markers were assessed. In addition, the histological assessment of renal architecture was done.

RESULTS

OCT treatment remarkably improved the renal functions and albuminuria. The reductions in mesangial cell hypertrophy, extracellular matrix as well as cell loss were significantly associated with upregulation of pro-autophagy gene expressions and downregulation of both pro-apoptotic and G1-cell cycle arrest genes expression. The reno-protective effects of OCT treatment were associated with significant attenuation of the fasting blood glucose, serum IL-6, renal TLR-4 and IFN-g gene expression.

CONCLUSION

Modulator effects of OCT on glucose and immune system play important roles in renal cell fate decision and chronic kidney disease progression.

In silico identification of potential drug compound against Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma by virtual screening and toxicity studies for the treatment of Diabetic Nephropathy

Diabetic Nephropathy is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus. Current therapeutic strategies of Diabetic Nephropathy are based on control of modifiable risks like hypertension, glucose levels, and dyslipidemia. Peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-γ) is implicated in several metabolic syndromes including Diabetic Nephropathy, besides obesity, insulin insensitivity, dislipidemia, inflammation, and hypertension. In the present study, virtual screening of 617 compounds from two different public databases was done against PPAR-γ with an objective to find a possible lead compound. Two softwares, PyRx and iGEMDOCK, were used to achieve the docking accuracy in order to avoid loss of candidate compounds. Rosiglitazone (used to treat Diabetic Nephropathy) was taken as the standard compound. A total of 30 compounds with good binding affinity with PPAR-γ were selected for further filtering, on the basis of absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET). The interaction profiling of these 30 compounds, showed a minimum of one and maximum of three interactions with reference to rosiglitazone (SER-289, HIS-449, HIS-323, TYR-473). The fulfilling of ADMET analysis criteria of 30 compounds led to the selection of four compounds (ZINC ID 00181552, 00276456, 00298314, 00448009). Molecular dynamics simulation of these lead compounds in complex with PPAR-γ revealed that three of the four compounds formed a stable complex in the ligand-binding pocket of PPAR-γ during 20-ns simulation. Hence, these three (ZINC ID 00181552, 00276456, 00298314) of the four compounds are potential candidates for experimental validation of biological activity against PPAR-γ in future drug discovery studies.

Sildenafil Prevents Podocyte Injury via PPAR-γ-Mediated TRPC6 Inhibition

Transient receptor potential channel C6 (TRPC6) gain-of-function mutations and increased TRPC6 expression in podocytes induce glomerular injury and proteinuria. Sildenafil reduces TRPC6 expression and activity in nonrenal cell types, although the mechanism is unknown. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPAR-γ) is a downstream target of sildenafil in the cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-activated protein kinase G (PKG) axis. PPAR-γ agonists, like pioglitazone, appear antiproteinuric. We hypothesized that sildenafil inhibits TRPC6 expression in podocytes through PPAR-γ-dependent mechanisms, thereby counteracting podocyte injury and proteinuria. Treatment with sildenafil, the cGMP derivative 8-bromoguanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt (8-Br-cGMP), or pioglitazone dose-dependently downregulated podocyte injury-induced TRPC6 expression in vitro Knockdown or application of antagonists of PKG or PPAR-γ enhanced TRPC6 expression in podocytes and counteracted effects of sildenafil and 8-Br-cGMP. We observed similar effects on TRPC6 promoter activity and TRPC6-dependent calcium influx. Chromatin immunoprecipitation showed PPAR-γ binding to the TRPC6 promoter. Sildenafil or pioglitazone treatment prevented proteinuria and the increased TRPC6 expression in rats with adriamycin-induced nephropathy and mice with hyperglycemia-induced renal injury. Rats receiving PPAR-γ antagonists displayed proteinuria and increased podocyte TRPC6 expression, as did podocyte-specific PPAR-γ knockout mice, which were more sensitive to adriamycin and not protected by sildenafil. Thus, sildenafil ameliorates podocyte injury and prevents proteinuria through cGMP- and PKG-dependent binding of PPAR-γ to the TRPC6 promoter, which inhibits TRPC6 promoter activity, expression, and activity. Because sildenafil is approved for clinical use, our results suggest that additional clinical study of its antiproteinuric effect in glomerular disease is warranted.

MicroRNA-27a Induces Mesangial Cell Injury by Targeting of PPARγ, and its In Vivo Knockdown Prevents Progression of Diabetic Nephropathy

MicroRNAs play important roles in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy (DN). In this study, we found that high glucose upregulated miR-27a expression in cultured glomerular mesangial cells and in the kidney glomeruli of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. miR-27a knockdown prevented high glucose-induced mesangial cell proliferation and also blocked the upregulation of extracellular matrix (ECM)-associated profibrotic genes. Reduction of cell proliferation and profibrotic gene expression by a miR-27a inhibitor depended upon the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ). Further studies showed that miR-27a negatively regulated PPARγ expression by binding to the 3'-untranslated region of rat PPARγ. An antisense oligonucleotide specific to miR-27a (antagomir-27a) significantly reduced renal miR-27a expression in STZ-induced diabetic rats and significantly increased PPARγ levels. Antagomir-27a also reduced kidney ECM accumulation and proteinuria in STZ-induced diabetic rats. These findings suggest that specific reduction of renal miR-27a decreases renal fibrosis, which may be explained in part by its regulation of PPARγ, and that targeting miR-27a may represent a novel therapeutic approach for DN.

Betulinic acid inhibits cell proliferation and fibronectin accumulation in rat glomerular mesangial cells cultured under high glucose condition

Glomerular mesangial cells (MCs) proliferation and extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation have been recognized as major pathogenic events in the progression of diabetic nephropathy. Betulinic acid (BA), (3β-hydroxy-lup-20(29)-en-28-oic acid), is a naturally occurring pentacyclic lupane group triterpenoid, and it has been shown to possess glucose-lowering property. However, the role of BA on MC proliferation and ECM accumulation in diabetic condition remains unclear. So, in the present study, we investigated the role of BA on cell proliferation and ECM accumulation in rat glomerular MCs cultured under high glucose (HG) condition. In the current study, we demonstrated that BA suppressed HG-induced MC proliferation, arrested HG-induced cell-cycle progression, reversed HG-inhibited expression of p21(Waf1/Cip1) and p27(Kip1). It also suppressed HG-induced fibronectin (FN) expression in MCs. Furthermore, BA inhibited HG-induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and p38MAPK in MCs. In conclusion, our present study demonstrated that BA inhibited HG-induced cell proliferation and FN expression in MCs via inhibiting ERK1/2 and p38MAPK pathways. Thus, BA may serve as a potential drug for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy.

TGF-β/BMP proteins as therapeutic targets in renal fibrosis. Where have we arrived after 25 years of trials and tribulations?

The understanding of renal fibrosis in chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains as a challenge. More than 10% of the population of developed countries suffer from CKD. Proliferation and activation of myofibroblasts and accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins are the main features of kidney fibrosis, a process in which a large number of cytokines are involved. Targeting cytokines responsible for kidney fibrosis development might be an important strategy to face the problem of CKD. The increasing knowledge of the signaling pathway network of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) superfamily members, such as the profibrotic cytokine TGF-β1 or the bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), and their involvement in the regulation of kidney fibrosis, has stimulated numerous research teams to look for potential strategies to inhibit profibrotic cytokines or to enhance the anti-fibrotic actions of other cytokines. The consequence of all these studies is a better understanding of all these canonical (Smad-mediated) and non-canonical signaling pathways. In addition, the different receptors involved for signaling of each cytokine, the different combinations of type I-type II receptors, and the presence and function of co-receptors that can influence the biological response have been also described. However, are these studies leading to suitable strategies to block the appearance and progression of kidney fibrosis? In this review, we offer a critical perspective analyzing the achievements using the most important strategies developed up till now: TGF-β antibodies, chemical inhibitors of TGF-β receptors, miRNAs and signaling pathways and BMP agonists with a potential role as therapeutic molecules against kidney fibrosis.

Hydrochloride pioglitazone protects diabetic rats against podocyte injury through preserving glomerular podocalyxin expression

OBJECTIVE

We sought to test the effect of different dosages of pioglitazone (PIO) on the glomerular expression of podocalyxin and urinary sediment podocalyxin excretion and to explore the potential renoprotective mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Type 1 diabetes induced with streptozotocin (65 mg/kg) in 36 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly allocated to be treated with vehicle or 10, 20, 30 mg/kg/d PIO respectively for 8 weeks. Eight rats were enrolled in the normal control group.

RESULTS

At 8th week, rats were sacrificed for the observation of kidney injury through electron microscope. Glomerular podocalyxin production including mRNA and protein were determined by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry respectively. Levels of urinary albumin excretion and urinary sediment podocalyxin, kidney injury index were all significantly increased, whereas expression of glomerular podocalyxin protein and mRNA were decreased significantly in diabetic rats compared to normal control. Dosages-dependent analysis revealed that protective effect of PIO ameliorated the physiopathological changes and reached a peak at dosage of 20 mg/kg/d.

CONCLUSION

PIO could alleviate diabetic kidney injury in a dose-dependent pattern and the role may be associated with restraining urinary sediment podocalyxin excretion and preserving the glomerular podocalyxin expression.

Hyperglycemia causes cellular senescence via a SGLT2- and p21-dependent pathway in proximal tubules in the early stage of diabetic nephropathy

AIMS

Kidney cells in patients with diabetic nephropathy are reported to be senescent. However, the mechanisms that regulate cellular senescence in the diabetic kidney are still unknown. In the present study, we evaluated the contribution of high glucose to renal cell senescence in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice.

METHODS

Non-diabetic and streptozotocin (STZ, 10mgkg(-1)day(-1) for 7days, i.p.)-induced type 1 diabetic C57BL/6J mice and cultured human proximal tubular cells were used in this study.

RESULTS

Hyperglycemia dramatically increased the renal expression of p21 but not other CDK inhibitors such as p16 and p27 at 4weeks after STZ injection. These changes were accompanied by an increase in senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining in tubular epithelial cells. Administration of insulin at doses that maintained normoglycemia or mild hypoglycemia suppressed the changes induced by STZ. Insulin did not affect the senescent markers in non-diabetic mice. Exposure of cultured human proximal tubular cells to 25mmol/L, but not 8mmol/L, glucose medium increased the expression of senescence markers, which was suppressed by knock-down of p21 or sodium glucose cotransporter (SGLT) 2.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that hyperglycemia causes tubular senescence via a SGLT2- and p21-dependent pathway in the type 1 diabetic kidney.

Berberine attenuates high glucose-induced proliferation and extracellular matrix accumulation in mesangial cells: involvement of suppression of cell cycle progression and NF-κB/AP-1 pathways

Berberine has been shown to have renoprotective effects on diabetes through attenuating TGF-β1 and fibronectin (FN) expression. However, how berberine regulates TGF-β1 and FN is not fully clear. Here we investigated whether berberine inhibited TGF-β1 and FN expression in high glucose-cultured mesangial cells. Berberine significantly inhibited mesangial cell proliferation and hypertrophy by increasing the cell population in G1-phase and reducing that in S-phase. In addition, berberine reversed high glucose-induced down-regulation of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21(Waf1)/(Cip1) and p27(Kip1). Berberine inhibited p65 translocation to the nucleus and c-jun phosphorylation induced by high glucose. Furthermore, berberine attenuated high glucose-induced expression of TGF-β1 and FN. Using a luciferase reporter assay, we found that high glucose-induced transcription activity of NF-κB and AP-1 was blocked by berberine. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay showed that high glucose increased that NF-κB and AP-1 DNA binding activity. These data indicate that berberine inhibited mesangial cell proliferation and hypertrophy by modulating cell cycle progress. In addition, berberine suppressed high glucose-induced TGF-β1 and FN expression by blocking NF-κB/AP-1 pathways.

Adiponectin retards the progression of diabetic nephropathy in db/db mice by counteracting angiotensin II

Adiponectin is a multifunctional adipokine with insulin-sensitizing, anti-inflammatory, and vasoprotective properties. Epidemiology studies have, however, shown that high levels of serum adiponectin are associated with kidney disease progression. We, therefore, examined the effect of adiponectin administration on the progression of glomerulosclerosis in the obese diabetic (db/db) mouse, a model of type II diabetes. Recombinant human adiponectin was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 30 or 150 μg per day from weeks 18 to 20. Rosiglitazone administered by gavage at 20 mg/kg body weight (BW) daily served as a therapeutic control. Untreated uninephrectomized db/db mice developed progressive albuminuria and glomerular matrix expansion, associated with increased expression of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1), plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1), collagen I (Col I), and fibronectin (FN). Treatment with adiponectin at either dose reduced the increases in albuminuria and markers of renal fibrosis seen in db/db mice, without affecting BW and blood glucose. Renal expressions of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and monocyte-chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and urinary TNF-α levels, the markers of renal inflammation, were increased in diabetic mice, whereas adiponectin treatment significantly reduced the levels of these markers. Furthermore, adiponectin obliterated the stimulatory effects of angiotensin II (Ang II), but not the total effect of TGFβ1, on the mRNA expression of PAI-1, Col I, and FN by cultured glomerular mesangial cells. These observations suggest that adiponectin treatment reduces glomerulosclerosis resulting from type II diabetes probably through its anti-inflammatory and angiotensin-antagonistic effects. Thus, adiponectin has therapeutic implications in the prevention of progression of diabetic nephropathy.

New Insights into the PPAR γ Agonists for the Treatment of Diabetic Nephropathy

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a severe complication of diabetes and serves as the leading cause of chronic renal failure. In the past decades, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs)/angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) based first-line therapy can slow but cannot stop the progression of DN, which urgently requests the innovation of therapeutic strategies. Thiazolidinediones (TZDs), the synthetic exogenous ligands of nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor- γ (PPAR γ ), had been thought to be a promising candidate for strengthening the therapy of DN. However, the severe adverse effects including fluid retention, cardiovascular complications, and bone loss greatly limited their use in clinic. Recently, numerous novel PPAR γ agonists involving the endogenous PPAR γ ligands and selective PPAR γ modulators (SPPARMs) are emerging as the promising candidates of the next generation of antidiabetic drugs instead of TZDs. Due to the higher selectivity of these novel PPAR γ agonists on the regulation of the antidiabetes-associated genes than that of the side effect-associated genes, they present fewer adverse effects than TZDs. The present review was undertaken to address the advancements and the therapeutic potential of these newly developed PPAR γ agonists in dealing with diabetic kidney disease. At the same time, the new insights into the therapeutic strategies of DN based on the PPAR γ agonists were fully addressed.

Nuclear hormone receptor expression in mouse kidney and renal cell lines

Nuclear hormone receptors (NHRs) are transcription factors that regulate carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, immune responses, and inflammation. Although several NHRs, including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) and PPARα, demonstrate a renoprotective effect in the context of diabetic nephropathy (DN), the expression and role of other NHRs in the kidney are still unrecognized. To investigate potential roles of NHRs in the biology of the kidney, we used quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction to profile the expression of all 49 members of the mouse NHR superfamily in mouse kidney tissue (C57BL/6 and db/m), and cell lines of mesangial (MES13), podocyte (MPC), proximal tubular epithelial (mProx24) and collecting duct (mIMCD3) origins in both normal and high-glucose conditions. In C57BL/6 mouse kidney cells, hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α, chicken ovalbumin upstream promoter transcription factor II (COUP-TFII) and COUP-TFIII were highly expressed. During hyperglycemia, the expression of the NHR 4A subgroup including neuron-derived clone 77 (Nur77), nuclear receptor-related factor 1, and neuron-derived orphan receptor 1 significantly increased in diabetic C57BL/6 and db/db mice. In renal cell lines, PPARδ was highly expressed in mesangial and proximal tubular epithelial cells, while COUP-TFs were highly expressed in podocytes, proximal tubular epithelial cells, and collecting duct cells. High-glucose conditions increased the expression of Nur77 in mesangial and collecting duct cells, and liver x receptor α in podocytes. These data demonstrate NHR expression in mouse kidney cells and cultured renal cell lines and suggest potential therapeutic targets in the kidney for the treatment of DN.

Effect of mononuclear cells versus pioglitazone on streptozotocin-induced diabetic nephropathy in rats

BACKGROUND

Diabetic nephropathy is a serious diabetic complication that leads to end stage renal disease. Cell therapies with human embryonic and specific adult stem cells have emerged as an alternative management for various diseases.

METHODS

To test this hypothesis, the present study was conducted to compare effect of MNCs treatment (iv injection once in the tail vein for diabetic rats in a dose of 150 x 10(6) MNCs cells/rat) versus pioglitazone (10 mg/kg, for eight weeks) on improving the renal structure and function changes and reducing laminin deposition associated with STZ-induced diabetic nephropathy in rats.

RESULTS

Treatment with pioglitazone orMNCs, demonstrated a significant improvement in the STZ-induced renal functional and structural changes in comparison with diabetic control group. Additionally, our histopathological and immunohistochemical studies confirm these results. Meanwhile, MNCs treated group exhibited more improvement in all studied parameters as compared to pioglitazone treated group.

CONCLUSION

These data indicate that MNCs treatment was superior to pioglitazone in controlling hyperglycemia, improving the renal structure and function changes and reducing renal laminin expression associated with STZ-induced diabetic nephropathy in rats.

L-165,041, troglitazone and their combination treatment to attenuate high glucose-induced receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) expression

Diabetic nephropathy is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease in the most developed countries of the world. Hyperglycemia-induced advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and receptor for AGEs (RAGE) production, pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion, and oxidative stress activation play major roles in kidney cell injury and apoptosis. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ) agonists are used clinically as insulin sensitizers. This study evaluated the renoprotective effect of PPARγ (troglitazone) and PPARδ (L-165,041) agonists on human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK) and mesangial cells. Troglitazone (10 μM) and L-165,041 (1 μM) significantly inhibited high glucose (25mM)-induced interleukin-6 and TNF-α production, RAGE expression and NF-κB translocation in HEK cells. Furthermore, Troglitazone (10 μM) and L-165,041(1 μM) significantly increased SOD expression and attenuated apoptosis in HEK and mesangial cells. The inhibitory effect between 1 μM L-165,041 and 10 μM troglitazone showed no difference. Furthermore L-165,041 and troglitazone together did not increase the effects. These results provide important information for future application of PPAR agonists in diabetic nephropathy treatment.

Telmisartan attenuates diabetic nephropathy by suppressing oxidative stress in db/db mice

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Telmisartan, an angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker, is widely used to treat hypertension and kidney diseases, including diabetic nephropathy, because of its renoprotective effects. However, the mechanism by which telmisartan prevents proteinuria and renal dysfunction in diabetic nephropathy is still unclear. In this study, we examined the effects of telmisartan against diabetic nephropathy in db/db mice.

METHODS

Telmisartan was administered at a dose of 5 mg/kg/day for 3 weeks to db/db (diabetic) and db/m (control) mice. Urinary albumin excretion, renal histology, and the gene expression of oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in renal tissue were determined. To evaluate the effects of telmisartan on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, superoxide was detected by dihydroethidium (DHE) staining in vivo and in vitro.

RESULTS

Telmisartan reduced albuminuria, mesangial matrix expansion, macrophage infiltration, and the expression of ROS markers (NADPH oxidase 4- and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine) and inflammatory cytokines (monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, osteopontin, and transforming growth factor-β) in the kidney. DHE staining showed that telmisartan decreased ROS generation in the kidney and in cultured mesangial and proximal tubular epithelial cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, these findings indicate that telmisartan protects against diabetic nephropathy by reducing diabetes-induced oxidative stress.

Inflammation and the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy

The most problematic issue in clinical nephrology is the relentless and progressive increase in patients with ESRD (end-stage renal disease) worldwide. The impact of diabetic nephropathy on the increasing population with CKD (chronic kidney disease) and ESRD is enormous. Three major pathways showing abnormality of intracellular metabolism have been identified in the development of diabetic nephropathy: (i) the activation of polyol and PKC (protein kinase C) pathways; (ii) the formation of advanced glycation end-products; and (iii) intraglomerular hypertension induced by glomerular hyperfiltration. Upstream of these three major pathways, hyperglycaemia is the major driving force of the progression to ESRD from diabetic nephropathy. Downstream of the three pathways, microinflammation and subsequent extracellular matrix expansion are common pathways for the progression of diabetic nephropathy. In recent years, many researchers have been convinced that the inflammation pathways play central roles in the progression of diabetic nephropathy, and the identification of new inflammatory molecules may link to the development of new therapeutic strategies. Various molecules related to the inflammation pathways in diabetic nephropathy include transcription factors, pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, adhesion molecules, Toll-like receptors, adipokines and nuclear receptors, which are candidates for the new molecular targets for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy. Understanding of these molecular pathways of inflammation would translate into the development of anti-inflammation therapeutic strategies.

Podocyte as a potential target of inflammation: role of pioglitazone hydrochloride in patients with type 2 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effects of pioglitazone hydrochloride on urinary sediment podocalyxin and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) excretion in patients with type 2 diabetes and to explore its possible renoprotective mechanisms.

METHODS

Ninety-eight patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes, who were previously prescribed metformin, acarbose, or both, were randomly assigned to a DP group (add-on pioglitazone; n = 49) or a DS group (add-on sulfonylurea; n = 49).

RESULTS

After 12 weeks of treatment, both add-on pioglitazone therapy (the DP group) and add-on sulfonylurea therapy (the DS group) demonstrated a similar improvement in fasting blood glucose and hemoglobin A1c, but systolic and diastolic blood pressure declined significantly in only the DP group. Moreover, the DP group showed significantly better efficacy in reducing urinary MCP-1 excretion in comparison with the DS group. Furthermore, both urinary albumin and urinary sediment podocalyxin excretion decreased significantly in the DP group but not in the DS group. The urinary sediment podocalyxin to creatinine ratio had a positive correlation with urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (r = 0.624; P<.01) and urinary MCP-1 to creatinine ratio (r = 0.346; P<.01).

CONCLUSION

Pioglitazone treatment revealed a podocyte-protective capacity in patients with type 2 diabetes, and the underlying mechanisms may be partly attributed to its effective suppression of excessive local renal inflammation.

Sugar, sex, and TGF-β in diabetic nephropathy

TGF-β is well known to play a critical role in diabetic kidney disease, and ongoing clinical studies are testing the potential therapeutic promise of inhibiting TGF-β production and action. An aspect of TGF-β action that has not received much attention is its potential role in explaining sex-related proclivity for kidney disease. In this review, we discuss recent studies linking TGF-β signaling to sex-related effects in diabetic kidney disease and suggest targets for future studies.

Genipin inhibits mitochondrial uncoupling protein 2 expression and ameliorates podocyte injury in diabetic mice

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the most common causes of end stage renal disease (ESRD) in China, which requires renal replacement therapy. Recent investigations have suggested an essential role of podocyte injury in the initial stage of DN. This study investigated the potential therapeutic role of genipin, an active extract from a traditional Chinese medicine, on progression of DN in diabetic mice induced by intraperitoneally injection of streptozocin (STZ). In diabetic mice, orally administration of genipin postponed the progression of DN, as demonstrated by ameliorating body weight loss and urine albumin leakage, attenuating glomerular basement membrane thickness, restoring the podocyte expression of podocin and WT1 in diabetic mice. The protective role of genipin on DN is probably through suppressing the up-regulation of mitochondrial uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) in diabetic kidneys. Meanwhile, through inhibiting the up-regulation of UCP2, genipin restores podocin and WT1 expression in cultured podocytes and attenuates glucose-induced albumin leakage through podocytes monolayer. Therefore, these results revealed that genipin inhibited UCP2 expression and ameliorated podocyte injury in DN mice.

The role of nuclear receptors in the kidney in obesity and metabolic syndrome

Nuclear receptors are ligand-activated transcriptional regulators of several key aspects of renal physiology and pathophysiology. As such, nuclear receptors control a large variety of metabolic processes, including kidney lipid metabolism, drug clearance, inflammation, fibrosis, cell differentiation, and oxidative stress. Derangement of nuclear receptor regulation, that is, mainly due to obesity may induce metabolic syndrome, may contribute to the pathogenesis and progression of chronic renal disease and may result in end-stage renal disease. This places nuclear receptors at the forefront of novel therapeutic approaches for a broad range of kidney disorders and diseases, including glomerulosclerosis, tubulointerstitial disease, renal lipotoxicity, kidney fibrosis, and hypertension. This review focuses on the importance of the transcription factors peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor beta, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, liver X receptors, farnesoid X receptor, and the pregnane X receptor/steroid and xenobiotic receptor (PXR) on the physiology and pathophysiology of renal diseases associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome.

PPARγ as a therapeutic target in diabetic nephropathy and other renal diseases

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is a ligand-activated nuclear transcription factor that regulates many important physiological processes including glucose and lipid metabolism, energy homeostasis, cell proliferation, inflammation, immunity and reproduction. The current review aims to summarize and discuss recent findings evaluating the protective effects of PPARγ against kidney diseases with a focus on diabetic nephropathy. We will also delineate the potential underlying mechanisms.

RECENT FINDINGS

PPARγ plays important roles in renal physiology and pathophysiology. Agonists of PPARγ exert protective effects against various kidney diseases including diabetic nephropathy, ischemic renal injury, IgA nephropathy, chemotherapy-associated kidney damage, polycystic kidney diseases and age-related kidney diseases via both systemic and renal actions.

SUMMARY

PPARγ agonists are effective in delaying and even preventing the progression of many renal diseases, especially diabetic nephropathy. PPARγ may represent a promising target for the treatment of renal diseases.

The renoprotective actions of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors agonists in diabetes

Pharmaceutical agonists of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are widely used in the management of type 2 diabetes, chiefly as lipid-lowering agents and oral hypoglycaemic agents. Although most of the focus has been placed on their cardiovascular effects, both positive and negative, these agents also have significant renoprotective actions in the diabetic kidney. Over and above action on metabolic control and effects on blood pressure, PPAR agonists also appear to have independent effects on a number of critical pathways that are implicated in the development and progression of diabetic kidney disease, including oxidative stress, inflammation, hypertrophy, and podocyte function. This review will examine these direct and indirect actions of PPAR agonists in the diabetic kidney and explore recent findings of clinical trials of PPAR agonists in patients with diabetes.

RXR antagonism induces G0 /G1 cell cycle arrest and ameliorates obesity by up-regulating the p53-p21(Cip1) pathway in adipocytes

The peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) agonist, pioglitazone (PIO), exerts anti-diabetic properties associated with increased fat mass, whereas the retinoid X receptor (RXR) antagonist HX531 demonstrates anti-obesity and anti-diabetic effects with reduced body weight and fat pad mass. The cell cycle abnormality in adipocytes has not been well-investigated in obesity or during treatment with modulators of nuclear receptors. We therefore investigated cell size and cell cycle distributions of adipocytes in vivo and examined the expression of cell cycle regulators in cultured human visceral preadipocytes. The cell size distribution and cell cycle analyses of in vivo adipocytes derived from OLETF rats demonstrated that HX531 brought about G0/G1 cell cycle arrest associated with the inhibition of cellular hypertrophy, which resulted in the reduction of fat pad mass. In contrast, PIO promoted proliferation activities associated with the increase in M + late M:G0 + G1 ratio and the appearance of both small and hypertrophied adipocytes. In cultured human visceral preadipocytes HX531 up-regulated cell cycle regulators, p53, p21(Cip1), cyclin D1, Fbxw7 and Skp2, which are known contributors towards G0 /G1 cell cycle arrest. The knockdown of p53 with a shRNA lentivirus reversed the HX531-induced up-regulation of p21(Cip1), which is one of the major p53-effector molecules. We conclude that HX531 exerts anti-obesity and anti-diabetes properties by up-regulating the p53-p21(Cip1) pathway, resulting in G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and the inhibition of cellular hypertrophy of adipocytes.

Pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic assessment of the interrelationships between tesaglitazar exposure and renal function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

The effects of tesaglitazar on renal function (assessed as urinary clearance of 125I-sodium iothalamate or estimated by the modification of diet in renal disease formula) were studied in a 24-week open-label trial in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients randomized to daily doses of either tesaglitazar 2 mg or pioglitazone 45 mg. The aim of the analysis was to develop a population pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic model that could simultaneously describe the interrelationship between tesaglitazar exposure and reduction in renal function over time in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic model could adequately describe the interplay between tesaglitazar and glomerular filtration rate. A one-compartment model in which the apparent clearance was influenced by glomerular filtration rate characterized the pharmacokinetics of tesaglitazar. An indirect-response model was used for the slow time course of change in glomerular filtration rate, which decreased from 100 to 78 mL/min/1.73m(2) after 12 weeks of treatment. All tesaglitazar-treated patients had a reduction in glomerular filtration rate, and available demographic variables could not explain differences in response. Patients treated with an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor were more sensitive to tesaglitazar and had larger glomerular filtration rate decrease compared to nontreated patients. Approximately 8 weeks after discontinuing treatment, mean glomerular filtration rate had returned towards baseline. The model and data give valuable insights into the dynamic changes in glomerular filtration rate over time.