Podocytes play a pivotal role in maintaining homeostasis of the glomerular filtration barrier. Podocyte loss represents a critical event that contributes to the development of diabetic kidney disease (DKD).
Nonetheless the key mediators and mechanisms underlying DKD-associated podocyte death remain poorly characterized. Proteinase 3 (PR3) is a serine protease with selective high abundance in myeloid cells and pleiotropic effects on the regulation of innate immunity.
Kidney International published a clinical update in Research Highlights on 13 Mar 2026.
The item focuses on Proteinase 3 drives murine diabetic kidney disease by mediating caspase-3-dependent apoptosis of podocytes.
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