Renal oxidative stress pathways and antioxidant enzyme systems

Renal oxidative stress pathways and antioxidant enzyme systems encompass the integrated network of molecules responsible for maintaining redox balance within the kidney. This system includes primary antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, which neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) like superoxide and hydrogen peroxide (PMID: 24508240). The Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) serves as a master transcriptional regulator, coordinating the expression of these enzymes in response to oxidative challenge (PMID: 30107163). In pathological states like chronic kidney disease (CKD) and diabetic nephropathy, an overproduction of ROS from sources like NADPH oxidase (NOX) overwhelms these defenses. This imbalance leads to lipid peroxidation, DNA damage, and protein carbonylation, which are hallmarks of renal injury. Such oxidative damage triggers downstream inflammatory and fibrotic cascades that accelerate the decline of the glomerular filtration rate. Pharmacological interventions, such as Nrf2 activators (e.g., Bardoxolone methyl) or ROS scavengers, aim to restore this balance to protect renal architecture (PMID: 28438337). However, targeting these pathways is complex, as ROS also serve as essential signaling molecules in normal physiological processes.

Other names

Renal antioxidant defense systemKidney redox signaling pathwaysRenal oxidative stress markers

Activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway to induce antioxidant gene expression, direct scavenging of reactive oxygen species, and inhibition of pro-oxidant enzymes like NADPH oxidase.