[Challenges in Kidney Disease: Therapeutic Potential of Bardoxolone Methyl]

Kidney diseases are highly prevalent worldwide and significantly reduce the quality of life in such patients, creating an urgent need for effective therapeutic options. Oxidative stress and inflammation are thought to be related to the progression of kidney diseases, and the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1-nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Keap1-Nrf2) system is known to a key factor for anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory properties, which is being widely investigated. Bardoxolone methyl, known to be a potent activator of this Keap1-Nrf2 pathway, has demonstrated increases in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in several clinical studies, suggesting its therapeutic potential for kidney diseases. This review summarizes available knowledge on the therapeutic potential of bardoxolone methyl for treatment of kidney diseases, with history and current situation of its developmental activities.