NOX4

NOX4 is an NADPH oxidase that generates superoxide within the cell. It is primarily found in vascular cells, fibroblasts, and osteoclasts, with abundant expression in the kidney. Unlike its family members NOX1 and NOX2, NOX4 is constitutively active, producing primarily H2O2 rather than O2. This different species generated triggers NOX4-specific actions in downstream cell signaling.

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the leading complications resulting from chronic diabetes. It manifests as progressive renal failure caused by mesangial cell hyperplasia and fibrosis, and is one of the leading causes of terminal kidney disease (1). While the etiology is complex, an imbalance between pro- and anti-oxidant pathways in the kidney leading to an excess accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is believed to contribute in large part to the development of DN.