Rhein attenuates renal fibrosis through reducing the expression of serum and glucocorticoid-induced protein kinase in diabetic rats

Objective To evaluate effects of Rhein on the expression of serum and glucocorticoid-induced protein kinase and other factors involved in the process of renal fibrosis in diabetic rats. Methods 24 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into normal control group(n =8),diabetic nephropathy group(n =8) and Rhein- treated diabetic nephropathy group(70 mg·kg- 1·d- 1,n =8). The metabolic data were measured at week 8. Immunohistochemistry was implied to examine the expression of transforming growth factor β1(TGF-β1) and fibronectin(FN). Western blotting assessed SGK1 protein level. SGK1 mRNA and CTGFmRNA were assessed by Real time RT-PCR. Results As compared to DN,blood glucose,24 h urinary protein,Ccr and kidney weight index were all decreased in R group. At the same time,mesangial cell and extracellular matrix proliferation were decreased significantly. Immunohistochemistry showed decreased TGF-β1 and FN expression in R group. Cortex SGK1 mRNA levels were down regulated by Rhein. Conclusions Rhein maybe attenuate renal fibrosis through reducing the expression of SGK1 in diabetic rats.