Targeting TRPC6 in podocytopathies: Why clinical translation remains a challenge?
Podocytes, the gatekeepers of kidney filtration, are vulnerable to TRPC6 channel dysfunction, leading to devastating diseases. Targeting this channel could be a game-changer, but translating it to the clinic remains a complex challenge.
This research paper delves into the critical role of the TRPC6 channel in maintaining the glomerular filtration barrier and its dysregulation in various podocytopathies, including focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and diabetic kidney disease (DKD). The review explores the underlying molecular mechanisms, focusing on calcium-dependent signaling pathways that drive podocyte injury. While TRPC6 inhibition holds promise as a therapeutic strategy, the authors highlight the complexities and challenges involved in clinical translation, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of these mechanisms to develop effective interventions and prevent the progression to end-stage renal disease.