Kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1): a novel kidney-specific injury molecule playing potential double-edged functions in kidney injury

Kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), a recently discovered transmembrane protein, is expressed in dedifferentiated proximal renal tubular epithelial cells in damaged regions. It may participate in the progress of renal injury or repair. Many studies have illustrated the different functions of KIM-1 in various renal diseases including protective functions in acute kidney injury and damaging functions in chronic kidney disease. Although, the exact functions of KIM-1 still remain unclear, some scientists speculate that KIM-1 is expected to be a therapeutic target for kidney injury. In this review, some of the known features and functions of KIM-1 are highlighted.