Delayed Rectifier K⁺-Channel Is a Novel Therapeutic Target for Interstitial Renal Fibrosis in Rats with Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction

Abstract

This study clearly demonstrated that the numbers of T-lymphocytes and macrophages were markedly increased in UUO rat kidneys with longer postobstructive days. The overexpression of Kv1.3-channels in leukocytes was thought to be responsible for the proliferation of these cells and the progression of renal fibrosis. This study strongly suggested the therapeutic usefulness of targeting lymphocyte Kv1.3-channels in the treatment of renal fibrosis.