Harnessing the power of nanoagents in acute kidney injury: A versatile platform for imaging and treatment

Abstract

Acute kidney injury (AKI), a severe complication marked by a sudden decline in renal function, is a significant public health concern with high morbidity and mortality rates. The early diagnosis and effective treatment of AKI remain challenging due to the complex etiology and pathophysiology of the disease. Nanoagents have emerged as a promising strategy for improving AKI management by enabling early detection, monitoring disease progression and enhancing treatment efficacy. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advances in nanoagent-based approaches for AKI imaging and treatment. We first discuss the pathophysiological characteristics of AKI and their influence on nanoparticle targeting, accumulation, and clearance in diseased renal tissues. Next, we present a variety of nanoagent-based imaging techniques for monitoring kidney function and diagnosing AKI. We also outline the therapeutic principles of AKI and summarize the broad array of nanotherapeutic agents developed for AKI treatment. Finally, the review discusses the challenges of bringing nanoagent research into clinical use and explores future directions, emphasizing key opportunities to drive progress in this field.