Blockade of PDGF receptor signaling reduces myofibroblast number and attenuates renal fibrosis

Kidney Int. 2011 Dec;80(11):1119-21. doi: 10.1038/ki.2011.300.

Abstract

Fibrosis can be considered as wound healing that never ceases, and activated fibroblasts (myofibroblasts) probably play a critical role in this unabated tissue repair process. In the setting of renal fibrosis, two central questions remain unanswered: Where do activated myofibroblasts come from; and what mechanism or mechanisms keep them activated? The study by Chen and colleagues addresses the role of platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) signaling in the activation of myofibroblasts.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Fibrosis / etiology*
  • Kidney Diseases / pathology*
  • Myofibroblasts / pathology*
  • Pericytes / pathology*
  • Receptors, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor / metabolism*
  • Reperfusion Injury / pathology*
  • Ureteral Obstruction / pathology*

Substances

  • Receptors, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor