Mast cell infiltration and chemokine expression in progressive renal disease

Abstract

Background. Mast cells are growth factor-rich, bone marrow-derived cells that infiltrate injured tissue where they have been implicated in the pathogenesis of progressive fibrosis. Methods. Mast cell infiltration and the expression of related chemoattractants was examined following 5/6 nephrectomy, a model of progressive, nonimmune-mediated renal injury. In addition, expression of the profibrotic cytokine, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) within mast cells and the effects of renoprotective therapy with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition were also determined. Results. Renal injury was accompanied by mast cell infiltration, in close proximity to areas of tubulointerstitial fibr..