scholarly journals Na+/Ca2+ Exchanger Activity Modulates Connective Tissue Growth Factor mRNA Expression in Transforming Growth Factor β1- and Des-Arg10-kallidin-stimulated Myofibroblasts

2005 ◽  
Vol 280 (15) ◽  
pp. 14378-14384 ◽  
Author(s):  
José R. Romero ◽  
Alicia Rivera ◽  
Vasco Lança ◽  
Manuel D. P. Bicho ◽  
Paul R. Conlin ◽  
...  
2011 ◽  
Vol 441 (1) ◽  
pp. 499-510 ◽  
Author(s):  
Helen C. O'Donovan ◽  
Fionnuala Hickey ◽  
Derek P. Brazil ◽  
David H. Kavanagh ◽  
Noelynn Oliver ◽  
...  

The critical involvement of TGF-β1 (transforming growth factor-β1) in DN (diabetic nephropathy) is well established. However, the role of CTGF (connective tissue growth factor) in regulating the complex interplay of TGF-β1 signalling networks is poorly understood. The purpose of the present study was to investigate co-operative signalling between CTGF and TGF-β1 and its physiological significance. CTGF was determined to bind directly to the TβRIII (TGF-β type III receptor) and antagonize TGF-β1-induced Smad phosphorylation and transcriptional responses via its N-terminal half. Furthermore, TGF-β1 binding to its receptor was inhibited by CTGF. A consequent shift towards non-canonical TGF-β1 signalling and expression of a unique profile of differentially regulated genes was observed in CTGF/TGF-β1-treated mesangial cells. Decreased levels of Smad2/3 phosphorylation were evident in STZ (streptozotocin)-induced diabetic mice, concomitant with increased levels of CTGF. Knockdown of TβRIII restored TGF-β1-mediated Smad signalling and cell contractility, suggesting that TβRIII is key for CTGF-mediated regulation of TGF-β1. Comparison of gene expression profiles from CTGF/TGF-β1-treated mesangial cells and human renal biopsy material with histological diagnosis of DN revealed significant correlation among gene clusters. In summary, mesangial cell responses to TGF-β1 are regulated by cross-talk with CTGF, emphasizing the potential utility of targeting CTGF in DN.


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