Renal pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression in diabetic nephropathy: effect of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition and pentoxifylline administration.

Background: Recent studies have shown a role for inflammation in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin (IL)-1 and IL-6 are cytokines with a prevalent pro-inflammatory activity. Our objective was to study the renal gene expression of TNF-alpha, IL-1 and IL-6 in DN and their relationship with renal damage assessed by urinary albumin excretion (UAE).

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha gene expression in diabetic nephropathy: relationship with urinary albumin excretion and effect of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition.

Background: The pathogenic mechanisms and molecular events involved in the development and progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN) are not completely known. Recent data indicate that diabetes includes an inflammatory component that is related to diabetic complications. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, a cytokine with mainly proinflammatory activity, may be synthesized by renal cells.