Document Type
Article
Journal Title
PLoS One
Publication Date
10-2013
Volume
8
Abstract
We evaluated the ability of a macromolecular prodrug of dexamethasone (P-Dex) to treat lupus nephritis in (NZB × NZW)F1 mice. We also explored the mechanism underlying the anti-inflammatory effects of this prodrug. P-Dex eliminated albuminuria in most (NZB × NZW)F1 mice. Furthermore, P-Dex reduced the incidence of severe nephritis and extended lifespan in these mice. P-Dex treatment also prevented the development of lupus-associated hypertension and vasculitis. Although P-Dex did not reduce serum levels of anti-dsDNA antibodies or glomerular immune complexes, P-Dex reduced macrophage recruitment to the kidney and attenuated tubulointerstitial injury. In contrast to what was observed with free dexamethasone, P-Dex did not induce any deterioration of bone quality. However, P-Dex did lead to reduced peripheral white blood cell counts and adrenal gland atrophy. These results suggest that P-Dex is more effective and less toxic than free dexamethasone for the treatment of lupus nephritis in (NZB × NZW)F1 mice. Furthermore, the data suggest that P-Dex may treat nephritis by attenuating the renal inflammatory response to immune complexes, leading to decreased immune cell infiltration and diminished renal inflammation and injury.
DOI Link
ISSN
1932-6203
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Yuan, Fang; Tabor, Dana; Nelson, Richard K.; Yuan, Hongjiang; Zhang, Yijia; Nuxoll, Jenny; Bynote, Kimberly K.; Lele, Subodh M.; Wang, Dong; and Gould, Karen A., "A dexamethasone prodrug reduces the renal macrophage response and provides enhanced resolution of established murine lupus nephritis" (2013). Journal Articles: Pharmaceutical Sciences. 2.
https://digitalcommons.unmc.edu/cop_pharmsci_articles/2