AMP-activated protein kinase/myocardin-related transcription factor-A signaling regulates fibroblast activation and renal fibrosis.

ABSTRACT: Chronic kidney disease is a major cause of death, and renal fibrosis is a common pathway leading to the progression of this disease. Although activated fibroblasts are responsible for the production of the extracellular matrix and the development of renal fibrosis, the molecular mechanisms underlying fibroblast activation are not fully defined. Here we examined the functional role of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in the activation of fibroblasts and the development of renal fibrosis. AMPKα1 was induced in the kidney during the development of renal fibrosis. Mice with global or fibroblast-specific knockout of AMPKα1 exhibited fewer myofibroblasts, developed less fibrosis, and produced less extracellular matrix protein in the kidneys following unilateral ureteral obstruction or ischemi

SUBMITTER: Wang Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5750062 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature