Both the plasma and the cytosol contain high concentrations of taurine, a free amino acid. The kidney is essential in regulating taurine levels. The amino acid shows a peculiar distribution along the nephron, as shown by immunohistochemical analysis. In a number of in vitro and in vivo models, taurine has been shown to have antioxidant properties. It protects glomerular mesangial cells and renal tubular epithelial cells from lipid peroxidation when those cells are cultured in high glucose or low oxygen environments. Animal models of renal illness, such as refractory nephrotic syndrome and diabetic nephropathy, respond favourably to dietary taurine supplementation. Taurine's antioxidant activity is the mechanism by which it exerts its positive effects. Subtotal ablative nephrectomy does not ameliorate acute ischemia or nephrotoxic renal insufficiency or chronic renal failure. More research on taurine's role as a renoprotective drug in experimental renal disease is necessary to completely elucidate its breadth and mechanism of action. The potential of this amino acid as an auxiliary treatment for diabetic nephropathy and progressive glomerulonephritis requires more clinical investigation.