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The Potential of Naturally Derived Compounds for Treating Chronic Kidney Disease: A Review of Autophagy and Cellular Senescence

Summary

This review explores how natural products from traditional Chinese medicine may help treat chronic kidney disease by targeting two key aging processes: autophagy (cellular self-cleaning) and cellular senescence (cellular aging). Common natural compounds like curcumin, green tea extract, and Astragalus have shown promise in protecting kidney function and reducing harmful inflammation. While these natural treatments show potential as complementary therapies alongside mainstream medicines, more clinical research is needed to confirm their effectiveness and determine optimal dosages.

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects approximately 10% of the global population and is characterized by irreversible progressive loss of kidney function. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been shown to have fewer adverse effects compared to mainstream treatments. Recent research has identified autophagy and cellular senescence as key contributors to aging and age-related diseases including CKD.

Objective

This review examines the use of natural products in TCM as alternative treatments for CKD and discusses their active ingredients in terms of renoprotection, autophagy, and cellular senescence. The study aims to explore the potential of naturally derived compounds to target aging-related processes in CKD patients and slow disease progression.

Results

Multiple natural products demonstrated potential therapeutic effects on CKD through various mechanisms including curcumin (autophagy activation, antioxidant effects), EGCG from green tea (ROS scavenging), Astragalus membranaceus (AMPK-mTOR pathway activation), resveratrol (antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects), and Ganoderma species (anti-aging and renoprotective properties). The gut microbiome was identified as a critical regulator of cellular senescence and aging in CKD.

Conclusion

Natural products from TCM show promise in targeting autophagy and cellular senescence pathways relevant to CKD treatment. Further clinical studies are needed to establish efficacy, optimal dosages, and synergistic effects when combined with mainstream therapies. Understanding the interplay between aging, cellular senescence, and CKD is crucial for maximizing therapeutic benefits of naturally derived compounds.
  • Published in:International Journal of Molecular Sciences,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: PMID: 39795863
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