The glomerular podocyte as a target of growth hormone action: implications for
the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy.
Authors Kumar PA, Brosius FC, Menon RK
Submitted By Frank Brosius on 5/2/2011
Status Published
Journal Current diabetes reviews
Year 2011
Date Published 1/1/2011
Volume : Pages 7 : 50 - 55
PubMed Reference 21067510
Abstract Involvement of the growth hormone (GH) / insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-I)
axis in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy (DN) is strongly suggested by
studies investigating the impact of GH excess and deficiency on renal structure
and function. GH excess in both the human (acromegaly) and in transgenic animal
models is characterized by significant structural and functional changes in the
kidney. In the human a direct relationship has been noted between the activity
of the GH/IGF-1 axis and renal hypertrophy, microalbuminuria, and
glomerulosclerosis. Conversely, states of GH deficiency or deficiency or
inhibition of GH receptor (GHR) activity confer a protective effect against DN.
The glomerular podocyte plays a central and critical role in the structural and
functional integrity of the glomerular filtration barrier and maintenance of
normal renal function. Recent studies have revealed that the glomerular podocyte
is a target of GH action and that GH's actions on the podocyte could be
detrimental to the structure and function of the podocyte. These results provide
a novel mechanism for GH's role in the pathogenesis of DN and offer the
possibility of targeting the GH/IGF-1 axis for the prevention and treatment of
DN.


Investigators with authorship
NameInstitution
Frank BrosiusUniversity of Arizona

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