A recent study from the University of Bristol has revealed a potential new way to slow the progression of diabetic kidney disease, a condition that affects about 40% of people with diabetes.
This discovery could be particularly beneficial for the 4.8 million people in the UK with diabetes, who are four times more likely to require dialysis or a kidney transplant compared to those without the condition.
The research focused on spironolactone, a commonly used blood pressure medication known to reduce protein leakage into the urine, which can help treat diabetic kidney disease. However, spironolactone can cause high blood potassium levels, a side effect that makes clinicians cautious about its use.
In this study, the researchers aimed to understand how spironolactone can prevent kidney damage. They discovered that the drug has a protective effect by preserving the glycocalyx layer, a gel-like substance on the surface of blood vessels within the kidney.
Using kidney biopsy specimens from patients, the researchers developed a new method to measure changes in glycocalyx depth. Their findings confirmed that diabetes damages this layer and that spironolactone can prevent this damage.
The study also showed that spironolactone reduces the activity of matrix metalloproteases, a group of enzymes that can damage the glycocalyx layer. By inhibiting these enzymes, spironolactone helps preserve the layer, thereby preventing the progression of the disease.
The next step for the researchers is to explore repurposing drugs that target matrix metalloprotease enzymes. This approach aims to find effective treatments for kidney disease without the adverse side effects associated with spironolactone and other mineralocorticoid receptor blockers.
This research marks an important step towards finding new treatments for diabetic kidney disease, offering hope to millions of people affected by the condition.
Protecting Kidney Health in Diabetes
If you have diabetes, there are several steps you can take to protect your kidney health:
Control Your Blood Sugar Levels: High blood sugar can damage your kidneys over time. Keeping your blood sugar within a healthy range, as advised by your doctor, is crucial.
Manage Your Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can also harm your kidneys. Aim to keep your blood pressure at or below 130/80 mm Hg. Your doctor may prescribe medications to help manage it.
Follow a Healthy Diet: A diet low in salt and saturated fats can help protect your kidneys. Focus on eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity can improve your overall health and reduce the risk of kidney disease. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Quit Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of kidney disease. Quitting smoking can improve your kidney health and reduce other health risks.
Take Medications as Prescribed: If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, taking your medications as prescribed is vital to protecting your kidneys from damage.
Get Regular Kidney Function Tests: Your doctor may recommend regular tests to check your kidney function. Early detection of kidney damage makes it easier to treat.
For those interested in maintaining healthy blood pressure, consider exploring studies on diets that help lower high blood pressure and the benefits of consuming 3 grams of omega-3s daily.
For more information about kidney health, recent studies have highlighted foods that may prevent the recurrence of kidney stones and methods to protect kidneys from diabetes.
This study, conducted by Dr. Matthew Butler and his team, was published in JCI Insight.
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