VEGFR1-Blocking Antibody Improves Endothelial Structure, Kidney Function, and GFR in Diabetic Mice

The authors investigate whether blocking VEGFR1 can improve kidney function and endothelial structure in diabetic kidney disease (DKD) using a murinized VEGFR1-blocking antibody, VGFB1. Their findings demonstrate that VGFB1 treatment enhances glomerular filtration rate (GFR), reduces serum creatinine and albuminuria, and improves kidney structure, suggesting a restoration of VEGFA activity and endothelial health through a mechanism distinct from the commonly used treatment, lisinopril. This study highlights the potential of VEGFR1 blockade as a therapeutic strategy for DKD.