A central role of EGFR transactivation in chronic kidney diseases

The signaling pathways involved in the progression of chronic renal diseases remain poorly understood. Recent works have shown that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) may act as a central transducer of heterologous signaling systems, such as angiotensin II, endothelin-1 and proteinuria, leading to renal damage. The molecular mechanisms of EGFR transactivation involve processing of transmembrane growth factor by metalloproteases. Transactivation of EGFR triggers molecular and cellular events that promote cell proliferation, matrix synthesis and vascular remodeling. Elucidation of elements and regulatory pathways implicated in EGFR transactivation should contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies for preventing the progression of chronic kidney disease.

Section editor:Michael S. Goligorsky – Renal Research Institute, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA