The Hidden Power of Diabetes Drugs in Preserving Kidney Function

Type 2 diabetes is a prevalent metabolic disorder often associated with the progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD), a leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) worldwide. Recent advancements in pharmacotherapy have highlighted the potential of SGLT2 (sodium-glucose cotransporter-2) inhibitors, a class of drugs designed to promote glucose excretion through urine, in preserving kidney health. A research group led by Associate Professor Katsuhito Mori from Osaka Metropolitan University has conducted a groundbreaking study on the renal effects of the SGLT2 inhibitor canagliflozin, shedding light on its mechanisms of action through advanced imaging techniques.

Canagliflozin, widely used in conjunction with lifestyle interventions such as diet and exercise, has demonstrated promising results in improving renal oxygenation. The research team employed blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) MRI, a non-invasive imaging technology commonly utilized to assess brain activity through changes in blood oxygen levels. By adapting this technique for renal studies, the researchers were able to observe the dynamic changes in kidney oxygenation associated with canagliflozin treatment.

Their findings revealed a notable increase in renal oxygenation within just one day of initiating canagliflozin therapy, sustained over the five-day study period. This increase suggests an enhancement in renal oxygen delivery and utilization, which may play a critical role in protecting kidney tissues from hypoxic injury, a key factor in the progression of DKD.

Animal studies have traditionally relied on invasive methods, such as microelectrode insertion, to measure kidney oxygenation. However, these methods are impractical for human application. The adaptation of BOLD MRI for renal studies not only provides a safer and non-invasive alternative but also offers new avenues for understanding the pathophysiology of diabetic kidney disease.

“BOLD MRI enables us to measure renal oxygenation without invasive procedures, making it an invaluable tool for exploring the mechanisms underlying kidney disease and for advancing therapeutic drug development,” explained Professor Mori.

This study underscores the potential of SGLT2 inhibitors like canagliflozin in mitigating renal hypoxia, thereby preserving kidney function in patients with type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, the application of advanced imaging technologies such as BOLD MRI could pave the way for more precise and personalized approaches in the management of diabetic kidney disease.

Subject of Research
Endocrinology

Article Title
Effects of canagliflozin on kidney oxygenation evaluated using blood oxygenation level-dependent MRI in patients with type 2 diabetes

News Publication Date
18-November-2024

Media Contact
Yung-Hsiang Kao
Osaka Metropolitan University
koho-ipro@ml.omu.ac.jp
Office: +81-6-6605-3452
@OsakaMetUniv_en

Web References
https://www.omu.ac.jp/en/info/research-news/entry-66720.html

References
Mori, Katsuhito, et al. “Effects of canagliflozin on kidney oxygenation evaluated using blood oxygenation level-dependent MRI in patients with type 2 diabetes.” Frontiers in Endocrinology 15 (2024): 1451671.