Advancing renal health: Immune checkpoint inhibitors and gene therapy in kidney disorders

Siman Da

doi:DOI: 10.35841/aacnt-9.1.248

Editorial - Journal of Clinical Nephrology and Therapeutics (2025) Volume 9, Issue 1

Advancing renal health: Immune checkpoint inhibitors and gene therapy in kidney disorders

Siman Da >*

Department of Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, University of Melbourne, Australia

*Corresponding Author:: Siman Da
Department of Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, University of Melbourne, Australia
Institute of Nephrology Research
USA
E-mail: siman@dav.au

Received:02-Feb-2024,Manuscript No. AACNT-24-161911; Editor assigned:03-Feb-2024,PreQC No. AACNT-24-161911(PQ); Reviewed:16-Feb-2024,QC No. AACNT-24-161911; Revised:20-Feb-2024,Manuscript No. AACNT-24-161911(R); Published:27-Feb-2024,DOI: 10.35841/aacnt-9.1.248

Citation: : Da S. Advancing renal health: Immune checkpoint inhibitors and gene therapy in kidney disorders. J Clini Nephrol. 2025; 9(1):248

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Introduction

The field of nephrology has seen remarkable advancements with the integration of immunotherapy and gene therapy in managing kidney disorders. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer treatment by enhancing the immune response, but their potential renal toxicity poses challenges for patient management. Meanwhile, gene therapy offers promising solutions for rare kidney disorders, providing targeted interventions for previously untreatable conditions. Understanding the benefits and risks of these innovative approaches is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes [1].

Immune checkpoint inhibitors target regulatory pathways in T cells to enhance the body's ability to combat cancer. They primarily inhibit proteins such as programmed death-1 (PD-1), programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4). While these therapies have shown remarkable success in treating malignancies, they also disrupt immune tolerance, potentially leading to adverse effects, including renal complications [2].

Renal toxicity is an emerging concern among patients undergoing immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. The most common renal adverse event is acute interstitial nephritis (AIN), characterized by inflammation of kidney tissues. Other complications include podocytopathies, glomerulonephritis, and tubular damage. The incidence of ICI-related nephrotoxicity varies, but early detection and prompt management are critical to preserving kidney function [3].

Several factors contribute to the risk of ICI-induced renal toxicity, including prior kidney disease, concurrent nephrotoxic medications, and genetic predisposition. Diagnosis often requires a combination of clinical assessment, laboratory findings, and renal biopsy. However, distinguishing ICI-related nephrotoxicity from other causes remains challenging due to overlapping symptoms with other kidney disorders [4].

The management of ICI-induced nephrotoxicity involves early detection, dose modification, and corticosteroid therapy in severe cases. In mild cases, discontinuing the offending agent and supportive care may be sufficient. Research is ongoing to develop biomarkers that can predict renal toxicity and aid in early intervention strategies [5].

Gene therapy has emerged as a groundbreaking approach to treating rare kidney diseases, such as Alport syndrome, autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), and nephrotic syndromes caused by genetic mutations. By delivering corrective genetic material, gene therapy offers the potential for long-term or permanent solutions to these conditions [6].

Innovations in gene delivery methods, including viral vectors, CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, and nanoparticle-based approaches, have improved the precision and efficiency of gene therapy for kidney diseases. These advancements enhance the stability, targeting, and safety of gene delivery, paving the way for clinical applications [7].

Despite its potential, gene therapy faces challenges, including immune responses to viral vectors, off-target effects, and high costs. Ethical considerations, such as patient consent and long-term safety, also play a crucial role in the development and implementation of gene-based treatments for kidney disorders [8].

The integration of immune checkpoint inhibitors and gene therapy in nephrology represents a paradigm shift in kidney disease management. Ongoing clinical trials aim to refine these therapies, reduce adverse effects, and expand their applicability to a broader range of renal conditions. Personalized medicine approaches, leveraging genetic and immunological insights, hold promise for improving treatment precision [9, 10].

Conclusion

Immune checkpoint inhibitors and gene therapy offer transformative potential for kidney disorders, balancing efficacy with safety concerns. While ICIs have redefined cancer therapy, their renal toxicity necessitates vigilant monitoring and management. Meanwhile, gene therapy provides hope for patients with rare kidney disorders, overcoming genetic barriers to treatment. As research continues to evolve, these innovative therapies will shape the future of nephrology, offering new avenues for improving renal health and patient outcomes.