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The renin-angiotensin system in diabetic nephropathy: the endothelial connection
1Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands. t.rabelink@digd.azu.nl
Mineral and Electrolyte Metabolism
|February 4, 1999
Abstract:
In recent years endothelial function has been forwarded a modulator in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy. This review summarizes how an imbalance between endothelium-derived reactive nitrogen species and reactive oxygen species as well as increased expression of the endothelium-derived peptide endothelin-1 may contribute to loss of renal function in diabetes. In addition, the potentially beneficial effects of blockade of the renin-angiotensin system on this endothelial dysbalance is discussed.