Blocking one protein helps injured kidneys heal

Researchers found that a protein called ENPP1 plays a key role in blocking kidney regeneration after damage. An injured kidney produces this protein, which then disrupts a chain of metabolic processes in the damaged cells, impairing energy production and stalling tissue repair. By blocking ENPP1 with an experimental drug (AD-NP1, a monoclonal antibody), researchers were able to accelerate recovery and reduce scar tissue formation in mice. That is the finding reported in the study, based on UCLA research.

A monoclonal antibody is a laboratory-made protein that targets and blocks one specific molecule, similar to how the immune system neutralizes pathogens. AD-NP1 targets only ENPP1 and leaves other proteins unaffected.

From heart to kidney

AD-NP1 was originally developed for use after a heart attack. Earlier research showed that it blocks ENPP1 in heart tissue, allowing the heart to recover more effectively. The new finding that the same mechanism also works in kidney tissue raises the question of whether the drug could have broader applications.

In the mouse study, animals were fed a kidney-toxic diet or given drugs that cause kidney damage. After four weeks, markers of kidney failure were significantly lower in mice unable to produce ENPP1, compared to control animals. The drug has already received FDA approval to enter a Phase 1 clinical trial in humans, initially focused on heart damage.

Caution remains warranted

These findings are based entirely on animal research. Whether the drug can restore kidney function in humans remains unknown. It is also unclear whether ENPP1 blockade would work for the gradual, chronic kidney damage typical of aging, which is a different situation from acute toxic injury. Further research is needed to determine whether the mechanism applies there as well.

Read the original article