Gene therapy for renal diseases and transplantation

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Initially conceived to address inherited genetic disorders, gene therapy has recently shown promise in improving renal function affected by progressive diseases and preventing kidney allograft rejection in experimental models. Esteemed experts contribute new insights into both viral and non-viral gene delivery systems, with a dedicated chapter on RNA interference (RNAi), which may be effective in treating renal ischemia-reperfusion injury, trauma, and transplantation. Gene therapy could potentially target molecules involved in tissue damage and inflammation related to acute renal failure (ARF). Successful applications of gene transfer have been noted in experimental glomerulonephritis and interstitial fibrosis, with studies in larger animals eagerly anticipated. The book also addresses transplantation, the preferred therapy for many end-stage organ failures. Gene transfer of proteins with immunomodulatory effects has shown promise in managing acute and chronic graft rejection, a challenge not fully resolved by existing anti-rejection medications. As efficacy is demonstrated in larger animal studies, gene therapy may soon become a viable option in clinical transplantation. Additionally, the potential benefits of targeted gene therapy for renal cancer and HIV-associated nephropathy are explored. This publication offers a comprehensive overview of current developments and challenges in the field.