Short interference RNAs in glomerulonephritis: A mini review

Abstract

Glomerulonephritis (GN) is a heterogeneous group of kidney diseases characterized by inflammation and damage to the glomeruli. Current treatments for GN remain suboptimal, creating a pressing need for innovative therapeutic strategies. Short interfering RNAs (siRNAs) represent a promising advance in the therapeutic landscape for GN, offering targeted gene silencing that could fundamentally transform the management of this significant cause of kidney disease. siRNA therapies work by selectively silencing specific genes involved in the pathogenesis of GNs, including interferon pathways, B cell activation, TGF-β, MAPK1, HMGB1, BLYSS, and SIRT1. Preclinical evidence demonstrates improved kidney function and reduced glomerular damage in experimental models. While challenges remain in translating these findings to clinical applications, ongoing research suggests that siRNA-based therapies have the potential to transform the treatment of GN, offering new hope for patients with this challenging kidney disease. This review highlights the impact of siRNA-based therapies in GN, exploring their mechanisms, delivery systems, challenges, and preclinical and clinical evidence.

Keywords: Glomerular disease, siRNA, IgA nephropathy, SLE, Lupus nephritis, Membranous nephropathy