Investigations into the inhibitory effects of relaxin on renal myofibroblast differentiation

Abstract

Derived from fibroblasts, myofibroblasts are the principal cells that are responsible for the synthesis and reorganization of excess matrix in renal interstitial fibrosis. Recognized from their de novo expression of α-smooth muscle actin, myofibroblast differentiation and activity can be influenced by several factors, including a combination of growth factors and other soluble mediators, extracellular matrix components, and mechanical stress. Relaxin has previously been shown to inhibit renal myofibroblast differentiation in vitro, an effect partly mediated through its ability to interfere with the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1r∥ pathway via inhibition of Smad2 phosphorylation and tr..