Self-cleaning process in scar-forming kidney cells may promote cyst growth in inherited polycystic kidney disease

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) involves the accumulation of myofibroblasts that may promote cyst growth.

• Myofibroblasts are often found surrounding cysts in ADPKD, contributing to fibrosis and inflammation.
• The cellular mechanisms that allow myofibroblasts to stimulate cyst expansion are not well understood.
• Autophagy in myofibroblasts may play a role in their ability to promote cyst growth.

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