Characterisation of transcription factor profiles in polycystic kidney disease (PKD): identification and validation of STAT3 and RUNX1 in the injury/repair response and PKD progression

We identified a list of transcription factors (TFs) commonly dysregulated in ADPKD. Out of the 92 TFs identified in the PKD Signature, 35% are also involved in injury/repair processes. STAT3 and RUNX1 are the most significantly dysregulated TFs after injury and during PKD progression. STAT3 and RUNX1 activity is increased in cystic compared to non-cystic mouse kidneys. Increased expression of STAT3 and RUNX1 is observed in the nuclei of renal epithelial cells, also in human ADPKD samples.