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Systemic and local effects of angiotensin II blockade in experimental diabetic nephropathy

Paula Vieitez1, Oscar Gómez, Esther R Uceda

  • 1Endocrinology Department, Ramon y Cajal Hospital, Madrid, Spain.

Journal of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System : JRAAS
|June 28, 2008
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Blocking the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) with irbesartan reduced kidney damage and lowered expression of key growth factors in diabetic rats. This suggests a direct effect of irbesartan on glomerular RAS blockade.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Endocrinology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Diabetic kidney disease is characterized by increased expression of growth factors.
  • The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays a crucial role in diabetic nephropathy progression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of blocking the RAS on specific growth factors (TGF-β1, PDGF-B, TNF-α, VEGF) in diabetic kidney glomeruli.
  • To determine if irbesartan has a direct effect on glomerular growth factor expression.

Main Methods:

  • Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were treated with irbesartan or vehicle for eight months.
  • Renal injury, proteinuria, and glomerular expression of TGF-β1, PDGF-B, TNF-α, and VEGF were assessed.
  • Isolated glomeruli from diabetic rats were incubated with irbesartan to evaluate direct effects.

Main Results:

  • Irbesartan treatment significantly reduced renal injury and proteinuria compared to controls.
  • Glomerular expression of TGF-β1, PDGF-B, TNF-α, and VEGF was lower in irbesartan-treated diabetic rats.
  • In isolated glomeruli, irbesartan directly reduced the content of these growth factors.

Conclusions:

  • Systemic and local administration of irbesartan effectively lowers glomerular expression of TGF-β1, PDGF-B, VEGF, and TNF-α in diabetic kidneys.
  • These findings indicate that direct blockade of the glomerular RAS contributes to irbesartan's renoprotective effects.

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