Orally active, species-independent novel A3 adenosine receptor antagonist protects against kidney injury in db/db mice

Abstract

Diabetic kidney disease: drug successfully targets key protein A therapeutic treatment targeting a protein involved in the progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) shows promise in mouse trials. Between 30 and 40 per cent of diabetic patients suffer from DKD, a common cause to fatal end-stage kidney disease. Protein receptors, commonly expressed on cell surfaces throughout the body, play both positive and negative roles in diseases. The A3 adenosine receptor (A3AR) is highly expressed in diabetic kidney tissue, and is linked to disease progression. Hunjoo Ha at Ewha Womans University in Seoul, Republic of Korea, and co-workers demonstrated the positive effect of a novel drug in targeting A3AR in mice with DKD. A 12-week treatment of the drug prevented kidney injury, lowered oxidative stress and inflammation, and improved kidney function. It may prove an invaluable drug, particularly in combination with an existing DKD drug.