Oxidized high-density lipoprotein impairs the function of human renal proximal tubule epithelial cells through CD36.

Unlike native high-density lipoprotein (HDL), oxidized HDL exerts adverse effects in a number of diseases, including chronic kidney disease (CKD); however, the mechanisms involved in this process remain unclear. In the present study, we investigated the effects of oxidized HDL on renal tubular cells, which play an important role in the progression of CKD. Human renal proximal tubule epithelial cells (HK-2) were cultured and stimulated with various concentrations of oxidized HDL in the absence or presence of CD36 siRNA.

Kruppel-like factor 15 modulates renal interstitial fibrosis by ERK/MAPK and JNK/MAPK pathways regulation.

Background/aims: Renal interstitial fibrosis is a hallmark of progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD). Previous studies reported that kruppel-like factor 15 (KLF15) is an important regulator of cardiac fibrosis and could reduce the expression of extracellular matrix in mesangial cells. However, the role of this transcription factor in renal interstitial fibrosis has not been reported.