Abstract: In certain aspects, the invention relates to use of PKD2 agonists, such as triptolide and triptolide derivatives, to regulate calcium release. In other aspects, the invention relates to use of PKD2 agonists to treat or aid in the treatment of any condition in which a calcium channel, such as the gene product of PKD 1 and/or PKD2, is mutated; calcium signaling is abnormal; or both, such as polycystic kidney disease.

Abstract: Described herein are therapeutic strategies (methods and compositions) useful for treating conditions in which cilia are affected and which manifest with cysts and/or fibrosis, such as conditions in which the kidney, pancreas, liver and/or spleen are affected and contain cysts. Particular embodiments described herein are therapeutic strategies in which PC-2 agonists, particularly agonists (calcium channel agonists) that target PC-2 directly and/or selectively, are administered to individuals with mutations in PKD1, in order to alter the course of polycystic kidney disease, particularly ADPKD. In specific embodiments, the invention relates to use of PC-2 agonists triptolide and triptolide derivatives to regulate calcium release. In other aspects, the invention relates to use of PC-2 agonists to treat or aid in the treatment of any condition in which a calcium channel, such as the gene product of PKD1 and/or PKD2, is mutated; calcium signaling is abnormal; or both.