Loss of Estrogen Receptor in Kidney Cells May Cause Preeclampsia and Kidney Issues

Recent research led by scientists from the University of Florence has shed light on how estrogen signaling plays a crucial role in kidney health during pregnancy. The study found that estrogen regulates kidney progenitor cells, which are vital for maintaining healthy kidney function and adapting to the increased demands of pregnancy. In mice with a loss of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) specifically in renal progenitor cells, researchers observed a failure to support podocyte generation—cells essential for filtering blood in the kidneys—leading to pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia. These mice developed hypertension, proteinuria, and impaired kidney function, conditions mimicking human preeclampsia.

The study employed advanced techniques, including lineage tracing and single-cell RNA sequencing, to understand the female-specific expansion of renal progenitors and podocytes during puberty and pregnancy. Human tissue analysis confirmed that estrogen, mainly acting through ERα, promotes the growth and maturation of renal progenitors. Women with higher progenitor and podocyte counts showed better kidney resilience, whereas those with reduced ERα signaling were more prone to kidney injury.

The findings suggest that proper estrogen signaling supports kidney health by expanding progenitor pools and ensuring adequate filtration capacity during reproductive years. Disruption of this process contributes to pregnancy-related hypertensive disorders, postpartum kidney disease, and long-term health risks for both mother and child, including increased susceptibility to hypertension and chronic kidney disease. The research emphasizes the importance of estrogen receptor function for kidney resilience and highlights potential targets for preventing pregnancy complications and future kidney disease.

source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-estrogen-receptor-loss-kidney-cells.html