Mastering a mediator: blockade of CCN-2 shows early promise in human diabetic kidney disease

Abstract

In diabetes complications, CCN-2 (known originally as CTGF) has been implicated in diabetic nephropathy both as a marker and a mediator of disease. This commentary addresses CCN-2 in diabetic nephropathy, in the context of the recent publication of the first human study to inhibit CCN-2 bioactivity in diabetic kidney disease.

Matricellular proteins in drug delivery: Therapeutic targets, active agents, and therapeutic localization

“…A phase 1 study of FG-3019 in patients with diabetic nephropathy showed good tolerability and a reduction in albuminuria (215, 216). In the Duchenne muscular dystrophy mouse model, FG-3019 was able to improve muscular strength and reduce impairment and fibrosis (217).…”

Drugs for Diabetic Nephropathy- Full Review

“…2) Aldosterone Receptor Blocker-Spironolactone [145] 3) Flavonoid compounds-astilbin [144] 4) FG-3019 Humanized monoclonal Ab that neutralizes the effect of CTGF in diabetic animal. [90] -it has shown to reduce albuminuria in diabetic nephropathy…”

Immunoinflammation in Diabetic Nephropathy: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Options

“…Synthesis of CTGF is stimulated by TGF-, hyperglycemia and AGEs, as well as CTGF itself. CTGF induces mesangial cell hypertrophy and cytoskeletal disassembling, upregulates cell production of fibronectin and collagens, and is also involved in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition of tubular cells (Twigg, 2010;Connolly et al, 2003).…”