Purpose of review: The insulin-like growth factor system plays an important role in renal physiology and it is perturbed in a range of kidney diseases.
Recent findings: Some insulin-like growth factor (IGF) actions in the kidney are mediated by nitric oxide. Growth hormone and IGF-binding proteins may contribute to renal diseases via effects on podocytes and proximal tubule cells. In contrast, growth hormone and IGF-I may counteract the catabolic consequences of end-stage renal disease. Polymorphisms in the IGF system are associated with hypertension.
Summary: Further studies are needed to determine whether modulating the IGF system may have a role in treating kidney diseases and/or hypertension.