CTGF mediates high-glucose induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition through activation of β-catenin in podocytes.

AbstractObjective: It is known that connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and β-catenin are involved in DN; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unknown. Here we hypothesized that podocytes undergo epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in high-glucose condition and CTGF mediates high-glucose induced EMT by activating β-catenin in podocytes.Methods: The differentiated podocytes were cultured and divided into three groups: the normal glucose group (5 mmol/L glucose), the high-glucose group (30 mmol/L glucose), and the osmotic control group (5 mmol/L glucose supplemented with 25 mmol/L mannitol). The morphology of cultured podocytes was observed under phase contrast microscopy. To study the relevant markers of EMT, as well as CTGF and β-catenin, the mRNA and protein expressions were analyzed by real-time PCR and western blotting, respectively. In addition, the effects of inhibition CTGF by anti-CTGF antibody on high-glucose-induced EMT and β-catenin expression in podocytes were studied.Resu...