Regulation of podocytes function by AMP-activated protein kinase.

Podocytes are unique, highly specialized, terminally differentiated cells that form an essential, integral part of the glomerular filter. These cells limit the outside border of the glomerular basement membrane, forming a tight barrier that prevents significant protein loss from the capillary space. The slit diaphragm formed by podocytes is crucial for maintaining glomerular integrity and function. They are the target of injury in many glomerular diseases, including hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Accumulating studies have revealed that AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), an essential cellular energy sensor, might play a fundamental role in regulating podocyte metabolism and function. AMPK participates in insulin signaling, therefore controls glucose uptake and podocytes insulin sensitivity. It is also involved in insulin-dependent cytoskeleton reorganization in podocytes, mediating glomerular albumin permeability. AMPK plays an important role in the regulation of autophagy/apoptosis processes, which influence podocytes viability. The present review aimed to highlight the molecular mechanisms associated with AMPK that are involved in the regulation of podocyte function in health and disease states.