Cell Type–Specific Expression of Long Noncoding RNAs in Human Diabetic Kidneys Identifies TARID as a Key Regulator of Podocyte Function

What is it about?

The kidneys filter waste and maintain balance in the body. In this study, we explored long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), genetic elements that regulate cell functions without producing proteins. LncRNAs are often specific to certain tissues and cell types, making them key regulators of organ function. Unlike many studies using mouse models, we analyzed lncRNAs directly in human kidney samples for more relevant insights. Using single-cell sequencing, we examined kidneys from healthy individuals and diabetic kidney disease (DKD) patients. We identified 174 lncRNAs specific to kidney cell types, 54 of which were altered in DKD. One, called TARID, was especially important in podocytes cells essential for kidney filtration. Our experiments revealed that TARID helps maintain podocyte structure. These findings highlight the importance of lncRNAs in kidney function and disease, offering potential new targets for treatment.

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