TGF-β1 induces IL-8 and MCP-1 through a connective tissue growth factor-independent pathway

Abstract

Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) functions as an important immunomodulatory cytokine in human kidney. Evidence suggests that connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is an important downstream mediator of the profibrotic effects of TGF-β1. However, the role of CTGF in TGF-β1-induced chemokine production remains unknown. This study was undertaken to determine whether CTGF is involved in mediating TGF-β1-induced chemokine production in renal proximal tubular (HK-2) cells. Interleukin-8 (IL-8) and macrophage chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) were measured. TGF-β1 induced an increase in IL-8 and MCP-1 (both P < 0.05) compared with control levels. CTGF was effectively silenced using small int..