Monica Wang

Aug 27, 2024 | nature.com | Monica Wang

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a common clinical complication in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). A report by Mark J. Shlomchik and colleagues reveals an interplay between NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) and Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) in B cells that can modulate SLE severity, including its kidney manifestations. The researchers propose that this protection might result from NOX2-mediated inhibition of TLR7 activity.

Jul 26, 2024 | nature.com | Monica Wang

Paradoxically, obesity is a risk factor for cancer but is also associated with a survival advantage in patients treated with immune-checkpoint inhibitors. Macrophage expression of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1) might link these two findings, according to a new study by Jeffrey Rathmell and colleagues.

Jul 24, 2024 | nature.com | Monica Wang

Ketogenic diets (KDs) aim to induce the production of ketone bodies and are being investigated as a dietary therapy for multiple conditions, including kidney diseases. A randomized-controlled trial conducted by Simone Kreth and colleagues suggests potential kidney benefits in sepsis.

May 31, 2024 | nature.com | Monica Wang

VHL loss is common in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) and triggers a pseudohypoxic state in mutated cells. A study by Jeffrey Rathmell and colleagues now suggests that Vhl deletion also affects the tumour immune-cell infiltrate in RCC. The myeloid cells that infiltrated Vhl−/− tumours were also functionally distinct from those in control tumours, as they were more phagocytic ex vivo and had enhanced expression of inflammatory genes and surface markers (including CD11c).

Mar 26, 2024 | nature.com | Monica Wang

In acute kidney injury (AKI), dysregulated tissue regeneration can promote fibrosis and chronic kidney disease. Sustained SOX9 expression after AKI is a key promoter of fibrosis, according to a new study by Sanjeev Kumar and colleagues. Epigenetic analyses suggest that cells with persistent SOX9 expression have a progenitor cell-like phenotype with patterns of chromatin reorganization that are associated with nephrogenesis and are distinct from those of SOX9– cells.