In Vivo Expression of VCAM1 Precedes Nephron Loss Following Kidney Tubular Necrosis

    October 2025 in “ Science Advances ”
    Anders M. Kristensen, Luca Bordoni, Marie Bodilsen Nielsen, Anna Faivre, Hanne Kidmose, Donato Sardella, Katherine E. Shipman, Nicoline V. Krogstrup, Joachim Størling, Henrik Birn, Rune Enger, Ina Maria Schießl
    TLDR VCAM1 appears early in kidney injury and signals future nephron loss.
    The study investigates the role of vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM1) in nephron loss following kidney tubular necrosis. Using transgenic mice and serial intravital microscopy, researchers found that VCAM1 expression occurs early in injured tubules, preceding nephron loss, fibrosis, and long-term kidney dysfunction. This expression is associated with fibroblast recruitment, although fibroblasts remain localized to injury sites without affecting uninjured tubules. Additionally, in human kidney transplant biopsies, VCAM1 expression correlates negatively with graft function at early and 12-month intervals, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for adverse outcomes. These findings highlight VCAM1 as an early indicator of tubular fate and nephron loss.
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