Blocking of angiotensin II is more than blocking of transforming growth factor-β

Abstract

Fibrosis is a common feature of chronic kidney diseases that is mediated by matrix-producing myofibroblasts. One potential origin of myofibroblasts is epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of tubuloepithelial cells. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a key factor inducing EMT. Carvajal et al. demonstrate that angiotensin II induces EMT by classical stimulation of TGF-β and also by a TGF-β-independent pathway, both signaling via Smad molecules. Therefore, blockade of angiotensin II is more than lowering of blood pressure and inhibition of TGF-β stimulation.