Dynamic expression of p38 MAPK and TGF-β_1 in the tubulointerstitium of diabetics rats

Objective To investigate the expression of p38 mitogen-actvated protein kinase(p38 MAPK) and transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1) in the tubulointerstitium of diabetic rats.Methods Streptozotocin-induced diabetic wistar rats were divided into the control group A and diabetic group B.The changes of expressions of p38 MAPK and TGF-β1 proteins were analyzed with the routine immunohistochemical method.At the same time,expressions of p38 MAPK and TGF-β1 mRNA were detected by RT-PCR.The morphology of renal interstitium was examined with HE and PAS stain.Blood glucose,blood serum creatinine,blood urea nitrogen and 24h urinary protein were examined with biochemical methods.Results The levels of p38 MAPK and TGF-β1 in group B were significantly higher than those in group A(P0.05).Conclusions mRNA and protein of p38 MAPK and TGF-β1 were over-expressed in the tubulointerstitium of diabetic rats induced by STZ and contributed to the pathogenesis of the tubulointerstitial injury.