Obesity-Induced Signals and Their Role in Worsening Kidney Disease, New Research Reveals

A recent comprehensive review by researchers at the University of Kentucky highlights the complex and harmful relationship between obesity and kidney health. Published in Nature Reviews Nephrology, the study details how excess fat tissue, far beyond simply adding weight, actively disrupts kidney function. This disruption occurs through various mechanisms including physical compression of the kidneys, impaired blood flow, increased internal pressure, and the release of inflammatory signals and hormones originating from expanded adipose tissue.

The research underscores that adipose tissue functions as an active neuroendocrine organ, sending signals that directly harm kidney structures. Moreover, it communicates with the brain to increase renal sympathetic activity, which can further exacerbate kidney damage. These pathways suggest that targeting the signals from fat tissue could be a promising strategy to mitigate obesity-related hypertension and chronic kidney disease.

The study also emphasizes the bidirectional relationship between kidney health and fat tissue. Pre-existing kidney conditions can impair fat tissue function, leading to abnormal fat storage and further worsening renal health. Additionally, the communication network involving nerves, hormones, and inflammatory factors linking fat tissue, brain, and kidneys plays a critical role in disease progression.

Researchers advocate for a deeper understanding of these interactions to develop effective treatments. Current and emerging therapeutic strategies discussed include drugs targeting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, which regulates blood pressure and fluid balance, along with approaches focusing on inflammation, lipid metabolism, lifestyle changes, and bariatric surgery.

Led by Dr. Analia S. Loria, the team aims to explore innovative therapies that could prevent or slow down kidney deterioration in obese individuals. Their work highlights the urgent need for new approaches given the rising epidemic of obesity and its complications.

This research sheds light on the biological pathways connecting obesity and kidney disease, emphasizing the importance of targeting fat tissue signals to improve renal outcomes and overall health.

Source: https://medicalx.pl/news/2025-04-obesity-triggers-worsen-kidney-disease.html