A study found that retinoic acid receptors (RARa) in the proximal tubules of the kidney are essential in preventing kidney injury that can lead to kidney failure. When RARa in the proximal tubules stop working, chronic kidney disease can develop. Current treatment options for kidney disease are limited, with dialysis or kidney replacement being the primary options. The study, published in PNAS, suggests that drugs activating RARa in the kidney could counteract fibrosis and effectively treat kidney disease. Researchers found that a lack of RARa led to cell distress, cell death, and ultimately fibrosis in their mouse model. Identifying drugs that activate RARa could potentially prevent kidney failure.
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New research identifies potential drug target to prevent kidney failure
