TGF-β/Smad signaling in chronic kidney disease: Exploring post-translational regulatory perspectives (Review)

The TGF-beta/Smad signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in the onset of glomerular and tubulointerstitial fibrosis in chronic kidney disease (CKD). The present review delves into the intricate post-translational modulation of this pathway and its implications in CKD. Specifically, the impact of the TGF-beta/Smad pathway on various biological processes was investigated, encompassing not only renal tubular epithelial cell apoptosis, inflammation, myofibroblast activation and cellular aging, but also its role in autophagy. Various post-translational modifications (PTMs), including phosphorylation and ubiquitination, play a crucial role in modulating the intensity and persistence of the TGF-beta/Smad signaling pathway. They also dictate the functionality, stability and interactions of the TGF-beta/Smad components. The present review sheds light on recent findings regarding the impact of PTMs on TGF-beta receptors and Smads within the CKD landscape. In summary, a deeper insight into the post-translational intricacies of TGF-beta/Smad signaling offers avenues for innovative therapeutic interventions to mitigate CKD progression. Ongoing research in this domain holds the potential to unveil powerful antifibrotic treatments, aiming to preserve renal integrity and function in patients with CKD.