Tranilast attenuates cardiac matrix deposition in experimental diabetes: Role of transforming growth factor-β

Abstract

The pathological accumulation of extracellular matrix is a characteristic feature of diabetic cardiomyopathy that is directly related to a loss of function. Tranilast (n-[3,4-anthranilic acid), used for the treatment of fibrotic skin diseases, has also been shown to inhibit transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-induced matrix production in kidney epithelial cells. To investigate the effects of tranilast in the diabetic heart, we examined its effects in cultured cardiac fibroblasts and then assessed its effects in (mRen-2)27 diabetic rats with established disease (8 weeks after streptozotocin). In vitro studies demonstrated a 58% reduction in TGF-β1-induced 3[H]-hydroxyproline incorporation wi..