Cellular apoptosis in the cardiorenal axis.

ABSTRACT

Cardiomyocyte apoptosis plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of heart failure. It may be induced by different stimuli, and it seems to be perpetuated by oxidative stress and inflammation. In this scenario, heart failure may trigger various cell-mediated and humoral pathways affecting distant organs, such as kidneys, contributing to higher therapeutic costs, morbidity and mortality. The term Cardiorenal Syndromes describes this condition and represents an important model for exploring the pathophysiology of cardiac and renal dysfunction. In this review, we have analyzed the mechanisms of organ interaction and the role of apoptosis in heart-kidney crosstalk, in particular its role in the pathogenesis of the different types of Cardiorenal Syndromes.