ADAM Proteases as Novel Therapeutic Targets in Chronic Kidney Disease

Abstract

More than 20 million Americans suffer, and ultimately die, from chronic kidney disease (CKD). Based on data from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), the yearly cost of dialysis treatment of patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) is currently $35 billion [1], and this number is predicted to rise as the US population ages and more people develop obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes. CKD is associated with progressive renal fibrosis and inflammation, and currently there is no cure for the disease.