[Growth factors in tubular cells]

Tubular cells are a major source of growth factors in the kidney, while the growth factors may play a crucial role for maintaining the histological structure or functions of renal tubulus. EGF, IGF-1 and HGF are important for the development of tubular segment, renal hypertrophy, regeneration after acute tubular necrosis and renal cyst formation. In contrast, TGF-beta is closely related to tubulo interstitial fibrosis. Since the tubulo interstitial lesions determine the progression or prognosis of the renal diseases, the regulation of these growth factors may be needed for the prevention of the irreversible tubular injury or for the regeneration of tubular cells.