Dual-Function Molecule Could Unlock Smarter Treatments for Kidney Disease
2025.10.23
Research
Researchers at Chiba University have identified a key molecule, CCL5, that plays a dual role in chronic kidney disease (CKD). While it protects specific kidney cells, it simultaneously worsens overall damage by promoting harmful inflammation. By developing treatments that precisely target the damaging effects of CCL5 without blocking its protective functions, scientists believe they could create smarter therapies to slow CKD progression and reduce the need for dialysis.
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CCL5 protects podocytes, the kidney’s essential filtration cells, but simultaneously drives harmful inflammation. Ultimately, these damaging effects surpass its protective role, leading to progressive kidney damage.