Role of Podocyte AMP Kinase

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), as a sensor of cellular energy status, has been known to play an important role in the pathophysiology of diabetes and its complications. As AMPK is also expressed in podocytes, it is possible that podocyte AMPK would be an important contributing factor in the development of proteinuria. In recent years, although interest regarding AMPK in the kidney has intensified, the studies on the role of AMPK in podocytes are limited. In this review, I will discuss the roles of AMPK in podocytes, which may involve in the development of podocyte dysfunction and proteinuria, and the possibility of AMPK-modulating drugs in the prevention and treatment of podocytopathy.