The mitochondrial SIRT1-PGC-1α axis in podocyte injury.

Dysfunction of mitochondria in podocytes is believed to be a trigger of injury and contributes to progressive glomerular sclerosis; however, the mechanisms had not been fully understood. Yuan et al. report involvement of SIRT1 (a homolog of the life-extending gene sir2 in mammals) and PPAR-γ coactivator 1α, a major regulator of oxidative metabolism, in mitochondria during podocyte injury. This information will be important in exploration of the mechanisms and future treatment of glomerular sclerosis.