The Ca-actin-cytoskeleton Axis in Podocytes is an Important, Non-immunologic Target of Immunosuppressive Therapy in Proteinuric Kidney Diseases

Overview

Journal Pediatr Nephrol

Date 2025 Jan 24

PMID 39856247

Authors

Agnes Hackl

Lutz T Weber

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

The integrity of the filtration barrier of the kidney relies on the proper composition of podocyte interdigitating foot processes. Their architecture is supported by a complex actin-cytoskeleton. Following podocyte stress or injury, podocytes encounter structural changes, including rearrangement of the actin network and subsequent effacement of the foot processes. Immunosuppressive drugs, which are currently used as treatment in proteinuric kidney diseases, have been shown to exert not only immune-mediated effects. This review will focus on the direct effects of glucocorticoids, cyclosporine A, tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, and rituximab on podocytes by regulation of Ca ion channels and consecutive downstream signaling which prevent cytoskeletal rearrangements and ultimately proteinuria. In addition, the efficacy of these drugs in genetic nephrotic syndrome will be discussed.

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