Inhibition of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and cyclooxygenase-2 reduces
albuminuria in models of chronic kidney disease marked by podocyte injury. Previously, we
identified a feedback loop in podocytes whereby an in vitro surrogate for glomerular
capillary pressure (ie, mechanical stretch) along with prostaglandin E 2 stimulation of its EP4
receptor induced cyclooxygenase-2 in a p38-dependent manner. Here we asked whether
stimulation of EP4 receptors would exacerbate glomerulopathies associated with enhanced …