Tangeretin protects the kidney from ischemia-reperfusion injury by inhibiting inflammatory response through downregulation of MAOA

Objective

This study investigates the protective effects and mechanisms of the natural antioxidant tangeretin in alleviating renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (RIRI), a major cause of acute kidney injury (AKI).

Methods

Firstly, a RIRI mouse model was established to investigate the renoprotective effects of tangeretin. Potential therapeutic targets were identified through RNA sequencing and network pharmacology analysis and subsequently validated using the GEO and KIT databases. Next, the interactions between key targets and ligands were examined using molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations. Finally, RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and pharmacological inhibition assays were used to verify the expression profiles and functional roles of these targets as well as their involvement in relevant signaling pathways.

Results

Tangeretin significantly improved renal function and attenuated histopathological damage in mice subjected to RIRI. Monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) was identified as a potential therapeutic target and was found to be markedly upregulated in RIRI, as confirmed by public database analyses. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations revealed the stable binding interaction between tangeretin and MAOA. Experimental validation demonstrated that tangeretin inhibited MAOA/NF-κB signaling and effectively reduced renal cell apoptosis. Moreover, the protective effects of tangeretin on renal function, inflammation, and MAOA regulation were similar to those of the MAOA inhibitor tranylcypromine.

Conclusion

Tangeretin attenuates RIRI-induced renal injury by inhibiting the MAOA/NF-κB pathway and exerting anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects. These findings highlight its potential as a promising therapeutic candidate for ischemia-associated AKI.