The development of insulitis and the kallikrein-kinin system.

Data derived from animals and humans suggest that the onset of diabetes is associated with hemodynamic changes in the renal circulation leading to increased renal plasma flow (RPF), glomerular capillary hyperfusion, and an increased glomerular transcapillary hydraulic pressure gradient. The duration of diabetes is one of the most important factors in predicting the development of diabetic nephropathy. On the other hand, diabetic nephropathy has been associated with the degree of hyperglycemia; thus, hyperglycemia may therefore contribute to alterations in structure and function of the kidney.