[Effects of all-trans retinoic acid on the expression of TGF-beta 1 and COL-I in rat model of peritoneal dialysis].

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) on the expression of transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta 1) and collagen I (COL-I )in rat model of peritoneal dialysis, which may relate to the prevention peritoneal fibrosis.

METHODS

Peritoneal dialysis model was established in rats, and then the rats were given ATRA 2 mg/kg (small dose group) or 5 mg/kg (large dose group) by the way of intraperitoneal injection once a day. All the rats were sacrificed on day 28. TGF-beta 1 and COL-I protein expression of peritoneum were measured by immunohistochemistry. TGF-beta 1 mRNA expression were examined with real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

RESULTS

Masson stain showed that the peritoneum thickness was significantly increased in the rats model, and collagen deposition was evident in the thickened submesothelial compact zone. With the treatment of ATRA, either in small or large dose, pathological changes were significantly lessened. The expression of TGF-beta 1 and COL-I of peritoneum was increased significantly in the rats model, but the levels in the two ATRA treated groups were lower than those of the untreated group.

CONCLUSION

ATRA could decrease the experession of TGF-beta 1 and COL-I in peritoneum and delay the progression of peritoneal fibrosis.