The role of chemokines in glomerulonephritis

Abstract

Leukocyte infiltration to glomeruli plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of glomerulonephritis. Pathophysiological roles of chemokines and their cognate receptors have shed light on the detailed molecular mechanisms of leukocyte trafficking and activation both in clinical and experimental settings of glomerulonephritis. Infiltrating leukocytes and glomerular resident cells interact to promote and exacerbate glomerular injury, eventually leading to glomerulosclerosis. Further, recent studies on chemokines have expanded their universe beyond leukocyte migration to glomeruli, to include homeostasis, development and protection of resident cells in glomeruli. New insights into proteinuria have been uncovered by the regulation of chemokine system. The intervention of chemokines and their cognate receptors may have therapeutic potential to slow the progression of glomerulonephritis.