The effect of ACE inhibitors on the expression of matrix genes and the role of p53 and p21 (WAF1) in experimental renal fibrosis.

Tubulointerstitial fibrosis in unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) is driven by increased levels of angiotensin II (AII). In this study we administered the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor enalapril to rats with UUO after tubulointerstitial fibrosis was established. Treatment with the ACE inhibitor halted the progression of fibrosis and to a significant extent reversed some aspects of tubulointerstitial fibrosis. It is suggested that enalapril administration may be an effective means of preventing the progression of tubulointerstitial fibrosis.