Hsp70/nitric oxide relationship in apoptotic modulation during obstructive nephropathy

The functional integrity of the kidney depends on normal development as well as on physiological cell turnover. Apoptosis induction is essential for these mechanisms. Multiple mechanisms are unleashed during obstructive nephropathy, one of the most complex being programmed cell death that leads to renal tubular atrophy and tubular loss. This review will focus on the interaction of nitric oxide and Hsp70 and on the regulation of renal antiapoptotic and protective oxidative stress responses.