Agents in development for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy.

BACKGROUND

Nephropathy is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in diabetic patients. Current treatments include optimization of glycemic and blood pressure control, but more innovative strategies are needed for the prevention and treatment of diabetic nephropathy.

OBJECTIVES

To review emerging therapies for diabetic nephropathy.

METHODS

This paper discusses the molecular mechanisms of diabetic nephropathy and the potential therapeutic interventions.

RESULTS/

CONCLUSION

New therapies, including those targeting the accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, are likely to feature in future treatment regimens. Other approaches that at this stage do not appear to be progressing include the glycosaminoglycan sulodexide and the protein kinase C-beta (PKC-beta) inhibitor, ruboxistaurin.