Open Access
REVIEW
Exploring the mechanistic role of epidermal growth factor receptor activation in non-cancer kidney disease
1 Medical Course, College of Medicine, Catholic Kwandong University, Gangneung, 25601, Republic of Korea
2 Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea
3 Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Advanced Convergence Technology & Science, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea
* Corresponding Author: JINU KIM. Email:
BIOCELL 2025, 49(1), 79-92. https://doi.org/10.32604/biocell.2024.058340
Received 10 September 2024; Accepted 28 November 2024; Issue published 24 January 2025
Abstract
The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a transmembrane glycoprotein that plays a crucial role in signal transduction and cellular responses. This review explores the function of EGFR in kidney physiology and its implications for various kidney diseases. EGFR signaling is essential for kidney function and repair mechanisms, and its dysregulation significantly impacts both acute and chronic kidney conditions. The review discusses the normal distribution of EGFR in kidney tubular segments, the mechanism of its activation and inhibition, and the therapeutic potential of EGFR-targeting antagonists and ligands. Additionally, it explores the pathophysiological characteristics observed in rodent models of kidney diseases through pharmacological and genetic inhibition of EGFR, highlighting therapeutic challenges and limitations such as species differences, variability in disease models, and potential adverse effects. Overall, the findings underscore the multifaceted role of EGFR in kidney diseases, influencing inflammation, fibrosis, and tissue injury. This complex involvement suggests that targeting EGFR may be a beneficial therapeutic strategy for managing these conditions, potentially mitigating inflammation and fibrosis while promoting tissue repair.Keywords
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