Scientists from the University of Bristol have made a significant breakthrough in the fight against diabetic kidney disease, a condition affecting approximately 40% of individuals with diabetes.
Their discovery could be a game-changer for the 4.8 million people in the UK living with diabetes, who face a heightened risk of needing dialysis or a kidney transplant.
The study explored the use of spironolactone, a common blood pressure medication, in treating diabetic kidney disease.
It’s known that spironolactone can lessen protein leakage in urine, a key factor in managing the disease. However, its side effects, like high potassium levels in the blood, often make doctors hesitant to use it.
The team’s focus was to understand how spironolactone protects the kidneys. They found that the drug helps maintain the glycocalyx layer—a gel-like substance coating the blood vessels in the kidneys. This layer is crucial for kidney health and is often damaged by diabetes.
Using kidney biopsy samples from patients, the researchers developed a new method to measure changes in the glycocalyx layer’s depth.
This technique confirmed that diabetes damages this protective layer, and spironolactone effectively prevents this damage.
Moreover, the drug reduces the activity of certain enzymes known as matrix metalloproteases. These enzymes can harm the glycocalyx layer, so inhibiting them helps preserve kidney health and prevent disease progression.
Looking ahead, the researchers are considering repurposing drugs that target these enzymes. Their goal is to find treatments that protect the kidneys without the negative side effects associated with mineralocorticoid receptor blockers like spironolactone.
This study marks a crucial step towards faster development of new treatments for diabetic kidney disease, offering hope to millions affected by this condition.
Protecting Kidney Health in Diabetes
For those living with diabetes, safeguarding kidney health is vital. Here are some key strategies:
- Control Blood Sugar Levels: Keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range is essential to prevent kidney damage.
- Manage Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can harm the kidneys. Aiming for a blood pressure at or below 130/80 mm Hg is recommended. Medications may be prescribed for this purpose.
- Eat a Healthy Diet: A diet low in salt and saturated fats, and rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can protect the kidneys.
- Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days to boost overall health and reduce the risk of kidney disease.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of kidney disease. Quitting can improve kidney health.
- Take Medications as Prescribed: Adhering to prescribed medications for diabetes or high blood pressure is crucial in protecting the kidneys.
- Regular Kidney Function Tests: Regular tests can detect kidney damage early, making it easier to treat.
This study, led by Dr. Matthew Butler and published in JCI Insight, represents a promising advancement in diabetic kidney disease research, offering new insights into treatment and prevention methods.
If you care about kidney health, please read studies about pesticide linked to chronic kidney disease, and this drug may prevent kidney failure in people with diabetes.
For more information about kidney health, please see recent studies about drug duo that may treat kidney failure, and results showing these vegetables may protect against kidney damage.
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