Protecting Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells using EPO

Caritas St. Elizabeth's Medical Center
posted on 02/13/2009

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Decription:Radiocontrast induced nephropathy (RCIN) is a major complication that develops after radiographical examination with intravascular administration of iodinated contrast materials. Although little is known about cellular mechanisms underlying RCIN, direct toxic action on renal tubular epithelial cells is implicated in its pathogenesis. We have recently developed an in vitro cell culture model of RCIN. We have shown that a variety of radiocontrast media reduce cell viability in a porcine renal tubular cell line (LLC-PK1) and in a human renal tubular cell line (HK-2). The cell injury is associated with activation of caspase 3 and caspase 9, suggesting that apoptosis signaling pathways are involved in this cellular injury. We have also found that co-treatment of renal tubular cells with radiocontrast media and rhEpo or darbepoetin protects cells against radiocontrast toxicity. Such treatment also reduces the level of caspase 3 and 9 activation and therefore, apoptosis. rhEpo has been widely used for the treatment of anemia of chronic kidney disease and cancer therapy. We propose, that this and other erythropoiesis-stimulating agents might be used for the prevention of RCIN.