Alterations of glomerular matrix proteins in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy

Diabetic late complications are characterized by morphological and biochemical alterations of the extracellular matrix. In particular, longstanding diabetes causes quantitative and qualitative changes in basement membrane structure of retinal and renal capillaries. Immunohistochemical investigations of diabetic kidneys with diffuse glomerulosclerosis show increased collagen type IV deposition in the mesangial matrix and decreased heparan sulfate proteoglycan content in the mesangial matrix and glomerular basement membrane as well. In nodular glomerulosclerosis normal basement membrane components are decreased or absent while the occurrence of collagen type III in this stage has been interpreted as an irreversible alteration of the glomerular structure. These changes seem to be the underlying cause for the alterations in renal functions like persistent albuminuria and proteinuria. Increased intra- and extracellular levels of glucose and its derivatives are thought to be responsible for diabetic tissue dysfunction although there are reports on possible genetic defects causing increased susceptibility to develop diabetic nephropathy. Recent results, however, focus on the role of glucose-induced cytokine secretion as mediator for altered metabolism of glomerular matrix proteins. In vitro studies with cultured kidney cells have shown that the glucose-induced dysregulation of the basement membrane synthesis may be mediated by a glucose dependent activation of protein kinase C. Alternatively or synergistically, the formation of AGE products formed after prolonged exposure of matrix proteins to elevated glucose may also lead to cytokine secretion subsequently inducing synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins. Studies in experimental animals confirm the diabetes induced dysregulation of the synthesis of extracellular matrix components on the molecular level.