An Updated Review on Diabetic Nephropathy: Potential Mechanisms, Biomarkers, Therapeutic Targets and Interventional Therapies

Background: Diabetic nephropathy (DN), the primary risk factor for end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) that requires dialysis or renal transplantation, affects up to 50% of individuals with diabetes. Objective: In this article, potential mechanisms, biomarkers, and possible therapeutic targets will be discussed, as well as their interventional therapies. Methods: A literature review was done from databases like Google Scholar, PUBMEDMEDLINE, and Scopus using standard keywords “Diabetic Nephropathy,” “Biomarkers,” “Pathophysiology,” “Cellular Mechanism,” “Cell Therapy,” “Treatment Therapies” from 2010- 2023. It has been studied that metabolic as well as hemodynamic pathways resulting from hyperglycemia act as mediators for renal disease. Results: We identified 270 articles, of which 210 were reviewed in full-text and 90 met the inclusion criteria. Every therapy regimen for the prevention and treatment of DN must include the blocking of ANG-II action. By reducing inflammatory and fibrotic markers brought on by hyperglycemia, an innovative approach to halting the progression of diabetic mellitus (DN) involves combining sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors with renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockers. When compared to taking either medicine alone, this method works better. AGEs, protein kinase C (PKC), and the renin-angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) are among the components that are inhibited in DN management strategies. Conclusion: Thus, it can be concluded that the multifactorial condition of DN needs to be treated at an early stage. Novel therapies with a combination of cell therapies and diet management are proven to be effective in the management of DN.