Renal function exacerbation is a serious concern for individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD), as it can lead to further deterioration of kidney function and potentially result in end-stage renal disease. Early detection and prediction of renal function exacerbation are crucial in order to intervene and prevent further damage to the kidneys. In recent years, researchers have been exploring the use of DNA methylation clock and DNA damage in urinary shedding cells as potential biomarkers for predicting renal function exacerbation.
A pilot study conducted by a team of researchers aimed to investigate the utility of DNA methylation clock and DNA damage in urinary shedding cells as predictors of renal function exacerbation in individuals with CKD. The study included a small cohort of patients with varying stages of CKD, who were followed over a period of six months to monitor changes in their renal function.
DNA methylation is a process that involves the addition of methyl groups to DNA, which can affect gene expression and cellular function. DNA methylation clocks are epigenetic markers that have been shown to correlate with biological age and various health outcomes. In this study, the researchers analyzed DNA methylation patterns in urinary shedding cells from the study participants and compared them to changes in renal function over time.
Additionally, the researchers also assessed DNA damage in urinary shedding cells, as increased DNA damage has been associated with various disease states, including CKD. By measuring levels of DNA damage in urinary shedding cells, the researchers aimed to determine if this biomarker could also be used to predict renal function exacerbation.
The results of the pilot study showed promising findings, with changes in DNA methylation patterns and levels of DNA damage in urinary shedding cells correlating with declines in renal function in some of the study participants. These findings suggest that DNA methylation clock and DNA damage in urinary shedding cells may serve as potential biomarkers for predicting renal function exacerbation in individuals with CKD.
While further research is needed to validate these findings in larger cohorts and across different populations, this pilot study provides valuable insights into the potential use of DNA methylation clock and DNA damage in urinary shedding cells as predictors of renal function exacerbation. Early detection and prediction of renal function exacerbation using these biomarkers could help clinicians intervene earlier and implement targeted interventions to prevent further damage to the kidneys in individuals with CKD.