Insulin Increases Expression of TRPC6 Channels in Podocytes by a Calcineurin-Dependent Pathway

Abstract

Background/Aims: Insulin signaling to podocytes is relevant for the function of the glomerulus. Now, we tested the hypothesis that insulin increases the surface expression of canonical transient receptor potential canonical type 6 (TRPC6) channels in podocytes by a calcineurin-dependent pathway. Methods: We used quantitative RT-PCR, immunoblotting, immunofluorescence and fluorescence spectrophotometry in cultured podocytes. Activation of Nuclear Factor of Activated T-cells (NFATc1) was measured using a specific calorimetric assay. Results: Insulin increased the expression of TRPC6 transcripts and protein in podocytes. Insulin increased TRPC6 transcripts in a time and dose-dependent manner. The insulin-induced elevation of TRPC6 transcripts was blocked in the presence of tacrolimus, cyclosporine A, and NFAT-inhibitor (each p Conclusion: Insulin increases the expression of TRPC6 channels in podocytes by activation of the calcineurin-dependent pathway.

Keywords

• Podocytes
• Insulin
• Transient receptor potential channel
• Calcineurin-pathway