PTEC-targetable diseases

September 27, 2021

PTEC-targetable diseases

Our primary focus lies on developing RNA therapeutics for the Proximal Tubule Epithelial Cell (PTEC) – the main culprit of many kidney diseases and downstream complications.

PTEC related diseases
The main function of the PTEC is reabsorption of many different compounds through specific reabsorption transporters. In some diseases, specific compounds are present in too high concentrations in the bloodstream, leading to all sorts of complications. Examples are phosphate leading to vascular calcification & cardiorenal problems or uric acid leading to chronic gout & kidney damage.

Secondly, the PTEC is the first cell type after the filtration barrier (glomerulus) and has an important role in keeping the rest of the nephron healthy. Protecting the PTEC is of utmost important in keeping the entire nephron healthy in cases of cilia-related diseases, such as Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD).

Thirdly, the PTEC has a high energy & oxygen consumption, thereby being prone to damage due to oxygen depriviation in cardiac surgery settings.

Finally, the PTEC is believed to be the first cell type to instigate inflammatory & fibrotic cascades leading to interstitial remodelling.