Transforming Growth Factor Beta 1 Drives a Switch in Connexin Mediated Cell-to-Cell Communication in Tubular Cells of the Diabetic Kidney.

Background/aims: Changes in cell-to-cell communication have been linked to several secondary complications of diabetes, but the mechanism by which connexins affect disease progression in the kidney is poorly understood. This study examines a role for glucose-evoked changes in the beta1 isoform of transforming growth factor (TGFβ1), on connexin expression, gap-junction mediated intercellular communication (GJIC) and hemi-channel ATP release from tubular epithelial cells of the proximal renal nephron.

Methods: Biopsy material from patients with and without diabetic nephropathy was stained for connexin-26 (CX26) and connexin-43 (CX43).