Analysis of microRNA Profiles in Urinary Exosomes for the Identification of Kidney Disease Biomarkers in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

• Grant number: 25/18774-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: January 01, 2026
• End date: December 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine
• Principal Investigator: Suely Kazue Nagahashi Marie
• Grantee: Wellington Alves Pereira Filho
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina (FM). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 20/02988-7 - Decoding the impact of microenvironment and signaling pathways in health and disease in brain, adrenal gland and kidney, AP.TEM

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic disease frequently associated with diabetic kidney disease (DKD), a complication that significantly contributes to patient morbidity and mortality. Mechanisms such as inflammation, oxidative stress, and alterations in the renal microenvironment play a role in the progression of kidney injury. In this context, urinary exosomes-vesicles released by cells of the urinary tract containing proteins, lipids, and RNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs)-have emerged as potential biomarkers by reflecting local pathophysiological changes. Although most studies in the field have focused on proteins, this area is already well explored, which may limit the originality of new approaches using this category of biomarker. In contrast, exosomal miRNAs have been relatively less investigated but have shown promising results, with well-established methodologies and room for relevant discoveries. Furthermore, the relationship between proteins and miRNAs in DKD remains poorly understood, reinforcing the investigative potential of this approach. In this project, 30 urine samples from individuals with T2DM, with and without kidney disease, as well as healthy controls, will be analyzed. Exosomes will be isolated and characterized by nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) and flow cytometry. Total RNA enriched in miRNAs will be extracted, followed by library construction and next-generation sequencing. Statistical and bioinformatic analyses will aim to identify differentially expressed miRNAs and potential signatures associated with DKD. The findings may contribute to the development of urinary biomarkers for early detection and disease stratification, with possible future validation of novel miRNAs. (AU)