Extracellular matrix-associated (GAGs, CTGF), angiogenic (VEGF) and inflammatory factors (MCP-1, CD40, IFN-γ) in type 1 diabetes mellitus nephropathy.

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of extracellular matrix-associated glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), angiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and inflammatory factors (MCP-1, CD40, IFN-γ) in the development of diabetic nephropathy in type 1 diabetes (T1DM).

METHODS

Plasma and urine samples from 30 T1DM patients and 20 healthy controls were used to measure the levels of CTGF, VEGF, MCP-1, CD40 and IFN-γ by ELISA. Plasma and urine GAGs were measured using a spectrophotometric method.

RESULTS

Plasma levels of GAGs, CD40 and MCP-1 and urine levels of GAGs and CTGF were significantly elevated in normoalbuminuric T1DM patients. A tendency to higher plasma VEGF levels was found in patients compared to controls. The urine/plasma GAGs ratio of T1DM patients was almost similar to that of healthy subjects (HS), whereas the urine/plasma CTGF ratio was about three times greater in diabetic patients compared to HS.

CONCLUSIONS

Conclusively, increased GAGs and CTGF excretion are evident in T1DM normoalbuminuric juveniles, possibly reflecting early renal injury signs, before the initiation of albuminuria.