Effect of Jak2 kinase inhibition on Stat1 and Stat3 activation and apoptosis of tubular epithelial cells induced by ATP depletion/recovery

Background: Apoptosis is involved in acute renal failure (ARF). Its exact mechanism still remains to be explored. The Jak-Stat pathway participates in inflammation, apoptosis and tumorigenesis. In an in vitro model of renal ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI), we investigated the role of Jak2 kinase inhibition on signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (Stat1) and Stat3 activations as well as apoptosis of human proximal tubular epithelial cells (HKCs) induced by adenosine triphosphate (ATP) depletion/recovery. Methods: ATP depletion of HKCs is induced by antimycin A. Results: The Jak2-specific inhibitor AG490 decreased Stat1 and Stat3 phosphorylations and promoted HKC apoptosis induced by ATP depletion/recovery. Conclusions: Our results have demonstrated that Jak2 inhibition participated in the ATP depletion-induced apoptosis of HKCs, which might be a potential target for prevention and treatment of ARF.