EPO synthesis induced by HIF-PHD inhibition is dependent on myofibroblast transdifferentiation and colocalizes with non-injured nephron segments in murine kidney fibrosis.

Our studies suggest that HIF-PHIs do not reactivate Epo transcription in interstitial myofibroblasts and that their efficacy in inducing kidney EPO in CKD is dependent on the degree of myofibroblast formation, the preservation of renal parenchyma and the level of residual renal function.