HGF as a multifunctional anti-fibrotic agent with high impact on gene therapy for renal interstitial fibrosis [Elektronische Ressource] / vorgelegt von Stephanie Schievenbusch

HGF as a multifunctional anti-fibrotic agent with high impact on gene therapy for renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis Inaugural Dissertation zur Erlangung des Doktorgrades Dr. nat. med. der Medizinischen Fakultät und der Mathematisch-Naturwissenschaftlichen Fakultät der Universität zu Köln vorgelegt von Stephanie Schievenbusch aus Den Haag Köln, April 2009 Berichterstatter: PD Dr. Roswitha Nischt Prof. Dr. Tobias Goeser Tag der mündlichen Prüfung: 02.07.2009 ABSTRACT Abstract Fibrotic processes in chronic kidney diseases are the leading cause of renal failure. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), effecting organ restructuring by its mitogenic, motogenic, morphogenic and anti-apoptotic activities, is one of the central mediators involved in tubular repair and regeneration after acute renal injury. In addition, HGF acts as an anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic factor antagonizing pro-fibrotic actions of transforming growth factor β (TGF β). However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the anti-fibrotic function of HGF in chronic kidney disease are not well understood.