The Promise of Mineralocorticoid Antagonism in Acute Kidney Injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. Despite substantial progress being made in understanding the mechanisms contributing to the pathophysiology of AKI, we have so far been unsuccessful in devising adequate therapeutic strategies against the disease. A growing body of evidence suggests that the activation of mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) may contribute to the exacerbation of AKI. Indeed, several studies have demonstrated the potential of MR antagonists in preventing and treating certain forms of experimental AKI. However, the main drawback of these medications is their side-effect profile. This has been addressed with the development of newer nonsteroidal MR antagonists, which have a comparable therapeutic profile without the side effects. This mini review aims at providing a brief overview of the rationale, potential benefits and challenges associated with the use of MR antagonists, particularly the novel nonsteroidal MR blockers, as therapy against AKI. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.