Work

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate attenuates oxidative stress and apoptosis in podocytes of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is a major pathological feature of kidney injury, with limited therapeutic options currently available. This study aims to investigate the core mechanisms of podocyte injury in FSGS and the therapeutic potential of the natural extract epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). Through single-nucleus RNA sequencing of kidney tissues from patients with primary FSGS and an adriamycin (ADR)-induced nephropathy mouse model, we identified a subpopulation of injured podocytes. We found that damaged podocytes exhibited significantly elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and increased apoptotic activity compared to healthy podocytes. In animal experiments, EGCG treatment effectively reduced the elevation of the urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio, significantly alleviated glomerulosclerosis, and attenuated the ADR-induced decrease in the reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione ratio in both serum and renal tissues of ADR-treated mice. Furthermore, in vitro treatment of conditionally immortalized mouse podocyte clone 5 confirmed that EGCG significantly reduced ADR-induced ROS production and apoptosis. These findings suggest that EGCG may provide a promising therapeutic approach for alleviating podocyte injury and mitigating FSGS progression.

Source: Renal Failure

DOI: 10.1080/0886022x.2026.2711462

Authors: Xiao Wang, Xiaoyun Shen, Jianbo Qing, Dezhao Lu

Institutions: Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University

Language: English

Topic: Renal Diseases and Glomerulopathies

Subfield: Nephrology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,306