Scientists reverse kidney damage in mice, hope for humans next
8 days ago
- #ceramides
- #mitochondrial health
- #kidney injury
- Researchers discovered that fatty molecules called ceramides trigger acute kidney injury (AKI) by damaging mitochondria in kidney cells.
- By altering ceramide metabolism or using a new drug candidate, the team prevented kidney injury in mice, maintaining mitochondrial function.
- Ceramide levels rise sharply after kidney injury, suggesting they could serve as an early biomarker for AKI.
- A ceramide-lowering drug candidate protected mice from kidney injury, keeping mitochondria intact and functional.
- The findings could lead to preventive treatments for high-risk patients, such as those undergoing heart surgery.
- The approach may also have implications for other diseases linked to mitochondrial dysfunction, like heart failure and diabetes.