A Role for TGF-β in Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis?

The etiology of this condition continues to unfold, with increased levels of this profibrotic cytokine found in many NSF skin samples.

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is a fibrosing disorder that occurs in patients with renal disease. Gadolinium exposure has been suggested as an etiologic factor (JW Dermatol Apr 4 2008). NSF tightens the skin of the extremities and may progress to internal organs. Disorders in the renin-angiotensin system (which directly or indirectly produces transforming growth factor beta [TGF-β]) have been linked to fibrosis in the heart and kidney. Investigators explored the role of TGF-β proteins in NSF.

They examined biopsy samples from eight NSF patients (5 women; median age, 46) for TGF-β1, Smad 2/3 (a known second messenger of TGF-β), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), and angiotensin II receptors (AT₁). Approximately 4 months after exposure…

Reviewing Author

Angelica Selim, MD

Disclosures

Grant / Research support NIH/NCI, The Plastic Surgery Foundation

Angelica Selim, MD

Disclosures

Grant / Research support NIH/NCI, The Plastic Surgery Foundation