NADPH oxidase in the kidney: A Janus in determining cell fate

NADPH oxidase-derived reactive oxygen species are implicated in apoptosis in certain kidney cells. On the other hand, NADPH oxidase is also involved in promoting cell proliferation in the kidney. The two faces of NADPH oxidase in these situations prompt us to argue that the role of this enzyme in various kidney diseases needs to be addressed in a cell-specific manner.