EVIDENCE FOR TGF-BETA-MEDIATED DEFENSE OF THE GLOMERULUS - A BLACKGUARD MOLECULE REHABILITATED

Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) has been regarded as a 'bla ckguard molecule' that induces glomerular diseases. During the process of glomerulonephritis, upregulated TGF-beta stimulates the production of extracellular matrix and inhibits its degradation, leading to exce ssive matrix deposition. On the other hand, TGF-beta has the potential to be anti-inflammatory via inhibition of mitogenesis and production of inflammatory mediators by glomerular cells. This molecule strongly inactivates infiltrating cells, especially macrophages, which play a p ivotal role in the generation of glomerular injury. The aim of this ar ticle is to summarize the potentially beneficial action of TGF-beta in the glomerulus and to address its 'bright side' in glomerular inflamm ation.