Saccharin and Sucralose Protect the Glomerular Microvasculature In Vitro against VEGF-Induced Permeability

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) has become a global health concern, with about 40% of people living type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus developing DKD. Upregulation vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the is significant pathology DKD associated increased glomerular permeability. To date, however, current anti-VEGF therapies have demonstrated limited success treating Recent studies shown that artificial sweeteners exhibit potential. The aim this study was therefore to assess effects aspartame, saccharin, sucralose on VEGF-induced leak using an vitro model endothelium. Saccharin but not aspartame protected against Whilst had no effect traditional VEGF signalling, GC-MS analysis sweetener able enter cell exert protective effect. Chemical molecular inhibition sweetener-mediated protection endothelium dependent sweet taste receptor, T1R3. These demonstrate potential for permeability maintain healthy protect glomerulus settings