Klotho acts as a coreceptor for the phosphaturic hormone fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) and exists in both a membrane-bound and a soluble form (sKlotho) found in blood and urine. Klotho protein is moderately expressed in kidney proximal tubule and more abundant in the distal convolution (DC), which includes the distal convoluted tubule (DCT) and connecting tubule (CNT). However, the function of Klotho in the DC, particularly its role in sKlotho release and regulation of mineral metabolism, remains unclear.
Kidney International published a clinical update in Research Highlights on 25 Feb 2026.
The item focuses on Klotho in the kidney distal convolution regulates urinary Klotho excretion and kidney calcium reabsorption, but not phosphate homeostasis.
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