Kidney international
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Advances in survival analyses: machine learning methods and model comparison

Apr 30, 2026

This article is the second part of a series focused on survival analysis, specifically examining novel machine learning methods for predicting survival outcomes and assessing model performance. The authors aim to enhance understanding and practical application of these advanced techniques by providing R code and instructions for readers to implement the methods on their own data.

A MEF2C transcription factor network regulates proliferation of glomerular endothelial cells in diabetic kidney disease

Apr 29, 2026

The authors aimed to investigate the regulatory mechanisms of endothelial and mesangial cells in diabetic kidney disease (DKD) by identifying transcription factor networks that influence cell proliferation and injury. They discovered that the MEF2C, MEF2A, and TRPS1 transcription factor network plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance between healthy and injured endothelial cell states, with dysregulation linked to disease progression. Furthermore, treatment with sodium glucose transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) was found to reverse the adverse effects of this network in DKD.

Estrogen protects female mice with chronic kidney disease from fibroblast growth factor 23-induced left ventricular hypertrophy

Apr 29, 2026

The authors investigate how estrogen influences cardiac responses to fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) in female mice with chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly in relation to left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). Their findings reveal that estrogen protects female mice from FGF23-induced LVH, highlighting sex-specific differences in cardiovascular risk and the potential molecular mechanisms involved. This study underscores the cardioprotective role of estrogen in females with CKD and identifies common signaling pathways between FGF23 and estrogen in the heart.

Insights from the BLISS-LN Phase 3 study of biomarker associations with kidney response to belimumab in lupus nephritis

Apr 29, 2026

The authors of this study aimed to evaluate the impact of belimumab on biomarker responses and identify predictive biomarkers for kidney response in patients with lupus nephritis. They found that belimumab treatment led to significant reductions in specific immunoglobulins and B cell populations, with certain baseline and early changes in biomarkers, such as IgA and anti-C1q antibodies, correlating with improved kidney responses. These findings suggest that specific biomarkers can help predict the effectiveness of belimumab in treating lupus nephritis.

The calcimimetic etelcalcetide restores cardiac function in chronic hyperphosphatemia via calcium sensing receptor-cAMP activation

Apr 27, 2026

The authors investigate the cardioprotective effects of the calcimimetic etelcalcetide (Etel) in the context of chronic hyperphosphatemia and its underlying mechanisms. They demonstrate that Etel restores cardiac function and contractility impaired by high phosphate levels through the activation of the calcium sensing receptor (CaSR) and associated signaling pathways. The findings suggest that Etel mitigates cardiac dysfunction and fibrosis despite persistent hyperphosphatemia by normalizing hormonal levels and enhancing calcium signaling.

Reversal of advanced diabetic kidney disease in mice treated with a monoclonal anti-VEGFR1 antibody

Apr 26, 2026

The authors aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of targeting VEGF-A and its receptors in advanced diabetic kidney disease (DKD) using various mouse models. They found that while blocking VEGF-A and VEGFR2 worsened kidney injury, selective inhibition of VEGFR1 significantly improved kidney function, reduced albuminuria, and even reversed established kidney damage, suggesting that VEGFR1 blockade could be a promising strategy for treating advanced DKD.

Independent association between acute kidney injury and kidney function trajectory

Apr 25, 2026

The authors aimed to investigate the independent association between mild to moderate acute kidney injury (AKI) and subsequent kidney function trajectories, specifically focusing on estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Their findings indicate that while mild to moderate AKI is associated with a small loss of kidney function, the overall impact on long-term kidney function trajectory appears limited after accounting for pre-existing factors. This suggests that while AKI may contribute to kidney disease progression, its clinical significance may not be as substantial as previously thought.

Roles of WNK1 and mTORC2 in aldosterone-independent regulation of potassium secretion in the distal nephron

Apr 25, 2026

The authors investigate the roles of WNK1 kinase and the mTORC2 regulatory complex in the regulation of potassium secretion in the distal nephron, specifically examining their function in an aldosterone-independent manner. Using knockout mice, they demonstrate that the absence of either mTORC2 or WNK1 in the late distal convoluted tubule and early connecting tubule leads to impaired potassium excretion in response to high dietary potassium, highlighting the critical role of the WNK1-mTORC2 signaling pathway in maintaining potassium homeostasis.

Clinical and Histologic Predictors of Non-Diabetic Kidney Disease in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

Apr 25, 2026

The authors investigate the prevalence of non-diabetic kidney disease (NDKD) in patients with diabetes mellitus who undergo kidney biopsy, aiming to identify clinical and histologic predictors that increase the likelihood of detecting NDKD. Their analysis of over 49,000 biopsied patients reveals that NDKD is present in 58.8% of cases, highlighting the importance of kidney biopsy in this population and providing insights for nephrologists on when to perform biopsies based on specific clinical indications.

Targeting B cells in immune-mediated kidney diseases: conclusions from a Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) Controversies Conference

Apr 25, 2026

The authors aim to evaluate the current evidence and identify research gaps regarding B cell-targeted therapies for immune-mediated kidney diseases, as discussed during a KDIGO Controversies Conference. They highlight the varying effectiveness and safety profiles of these therapies across different glomerular diseases, noting specific treatments like rituximab for membranous nephropathy and novel approaches for lupus nephritis. The authors emphasize the need for validated biomarkers and optimized treatment protocols to enhance patient outcomes.