A new era in the science and care of kidney diseases.

Publication Title

Nat Rev Nephrol

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-4-2024

Keywords

washington; spokane; pmrc

Abstract

Notable progress in basic, translational and clinical nephrology research has been made over the past five decades. Nonetheless, many challenges remain, including obstacles to the early detection of kidney disease, disparities in access to care and variability in responses to existing and emerging therapies. Innovations in drug development, research technologies, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine have the potential to improve patient outcomes. Exciting prospects include the availability of new drugs to slow or halt the progression of chronic kidney disease, the development of bioartificial kidneys that mimic healthy kidney functions, and tissue engineering techniques that could enable transplantable kidneys to be created from the cells of the recipient, removing the risk of rejection. Cell and gene therapies have the potential to be applied for kidney tissue regeneration and repair. In addition, about 30% of kidney disease cases are monogenic and could potentially be treated using these genetic medicine approaches. Systemic diseases that involve the kidney, such as diabetes mellitus and hypertension, might also be amenable to these treatments. Continued investment, communication, collaboration and translation of innovations are crucial to realize their full potential. In addition, increasing sophistication in exploring large datasets, implementation science, and qualitative methodologies will improve the ability to deliver transformational kidney health strategies.

Area of Special Interest

Kidney & Diabetes

Specialty/Research Institute

Endocrinology

Specialty/Research Institute

Nephrology

Specialty/Research Institute

Pharmacy

DOI

10.1038/s41581-024-00828-y

Share

COinS