P2X7 receptor and renal diseases

P2X7 receptor is a member of ATP-gated non-selective cation channels, and is one subtype family of the P2X purinergic receptor. Signaling pathways of P2X7 receptor couple with several key inflammatory molecules including IL-1β, IL-6 and COX-2, which suggests that P2X7 receptor plays a key role in the development of diseases via increased inflammation, indicating its potential as a novel therapeutic target. Recent studies show that P2X7 receptor has a relationship with renal diseases. This article reviews the effect of P2X7 receptor on renal diseases and its mechanism. P2X7 receptor may be a new drug target, and its selectivity antagonist may be a new therapeutic agent for the treatment of renal diseases.