Nephron-Specific Lin28A Overexpression Triggers Severe Inflammatory Response and Kidney Damage

The RNA-binding proteins LIN28A and LIN28B contribute to a variety of developmental biological processes. Dysregulation of Lin28A and Lin28B expression is associated with numerous types of tumors. This study demonstrates that Lin28A overexpression in the mouse nephrons leads to severe inflammation and kidney damage rather than to tumorigenesis. Notably, Lin28A overexpression causes inflammation only when expressed in nephrons, but not in the stromal cells of the kidneys, highlighting its cell context-dependent nature. The nephron-specific Lin28A-induced inflammatory response differs from previously described Lin28B-mediated inflammatory feedback loops as it is IL-6 independent. Instead, it is associated with the rapid upregulation of cytokines like Cxcl1 and Ccl2. These findings suggest that the pathophysiological effects of Lin28A overexpression extend beyond cell transformation. Our transgenic mouse model offers a valuable tool for advancing our understanding of the pathophysiology of acute kidney injury, where inflammation is a key factor.