Singapore Scientists Discover That a Special Supplement Could Treat Acute Kidney Injury

Singaporean Scientists Uncover Potential Treatment for Acute Kidney Injury

Researchers in Singapore have unveiled a breakthrough in the realm of acute kidney injury (AKI) treatment, shedding light on the promising effects of a dietary supplement known as LPC-DHA. Preliminary research outcomes indicate that LPC-DHA could significantly enhance kidney function and mitigate damage caused by AKI, offering a glimmer of hope for future therapeutic interventions.

The revelation emerges from a comprehensive investigation conducted by scientists at Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore, focusing on the cellular mechanisms of LPC-DHA, a specialized omega-3 lipid. Published in the esteemed Journal of Lipid Research, their findings herald a potential game-changer in the battle against AKI.

The Global AKI Challenge

Acute kidney injury stands as a formidable global health concern, afflicting an estimated 13.3 million individuals worldwide annually. Its grim toll is compounded by a mortality rate ranging from 20 to 50 percent, contingent upon both the economic conditions of the affected region and the stage of the ailment. Ischemic reperfusion injury represents a chief instigator of AKI, manifesting when the kidney’s blood supply is reinstated following a period of limited blood flow and inadequate oxygen delivery, often stemming from illness, injury, or surgical procedures. Notably, this injury detrimentally impacts the S3 proximal tubules within the kidney, which play a pivotal role in regulating water absorption and the assimilation of soluble substances, including salts.

Key Revelations and Their Significance

Dr. Randy Loke, the primary author of the study and an MD-PhD student associated with Duke-NUS’ Cardiovascular & Metabolic Disorders (CVMD) Programme, underscores the gravity of the AKI challenge, noting its dearth of effective treatment options. Dr. Loke states, “We sought to understand how these tubules repair themselves and found that the activity of the protein Mfsd2a, which transports LPC-DHA into cells, is a key factor influencing the rate of recovery of kidney function after ischemic reperfusion injury.”

In their investigation, the research team observed that preclinical models with diminished levels of Mfsd2a exhibited delayed recovery, heightened damage, and increased inflammation subsequent to kidney injury. Remarkably, treatment with LPC-DHA ameliorated kidney function and reduced damage in these models. Additionally, LPC-DHA facilitated the restoration of the structure of the S3 proximal tubules, thereby restoring their proper functioning.

Professor David Silver, the senior author of the study and Deputy Director of the CVMD Programme, highlights the potential of LPC-DHA as a dietary supplement, expressing optimism about its future application in AKI cases. He states, “As our results suggest that LPC-DHA could become a safe and effective treatment that offers lifelong protection, its potential can help protect the kidneys and aid in recovery for these individuals.”

Charting the Path Ahead

In the forthcoming phase of their research endeavors, the team intends to delve deeper into the therapeutic properties of LPC within the kidneys. They aim to initiate clinical trials involving LPC supplements to ascertain their efficacy in enhancing renal function and promoting recovery in patients with AKI.

Furthermore, the researchers plan to continue their exploration of the role played by the Mfsd2a protein in LPC transport, with a keen eye on its involvement in diseases affecting other bodily organs and tissues. Earlier studies conducted by Professor Silver’s team, in collaboration with researchers from other institutions, have already underscored the significance of this protein’s LPC-transporting activities in diseases affecting diverse organs, including the liver, lungs, and brain.

Reference: “Mfsd2a-mediated lysolipid transport is important for renal recovery after acute kidney injury” by Randy Y.J. Loke, Cheen Fei Chin, Gao Liang, Bernice H. Wong, Dwight L.A. Galam, Bryan C. Tan, Geok-Lin Chua, Shintaro Minegishi, Norihiko Morisawa, Iulia Sidorov, Bram Heijs, Jens Titze, Markus R. Wenk, Federico Torta and David L. Silver, 17 July 2023, Journal of Lipid Research.
DOI: 10.1016/j.jlr.2023.100416

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More about AKI Treatment Breakthrough

• Journal of Lipid Research: The source of the published research findings on LPC-DHA and its role in renal recovery after acute kidney injury (AKI).

• Duke-NUS Medical School: The institution where the research was conducted, providing additional information on their research programs and initiatives.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Information on omega-3 fatty acids, which includes LPC-DHA, and their potential health benefits.

• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Detailed insights into acute kidney injury, its causes, symptoms, and treatments, from the National Kidney Foundation.

• Mfsd2a Protein: Information about the Mfsd2a protein, its functions, and its relevance in various physiological processes.

• Clinical Trials: For updates on clinical trials related to LPC supplements and their effectiveness in AKI treatment when they become available.