Inhibition of EGF Receptor Blocks the Development and Progression of Peritoneal Fibrosis.

ABSTRACT: Inhibitors of EGF receptor (EGFR) have antifibrotic effects in several organs, but the effect of these inhibitors on the development of peritoneal fibrosis is unknown. Here, we explored the therapeutic effect of gefitinib, a specific inhibitor of EGFR, on the development and progression of peritoneal fibrosis in a rat model. Daily intraperitoneal injections of chlorhexidine gluconate induced peritoneal fibrosis, indicated by thickening of the submesothelial area with an accumulation of collagen fibrils and activation of myofibroblasts, accompanied by time-dependent phosphorylation of EGFR. Administration of gefitinib immediately after injury prevented the onset of peritoneal fibrosis and delayed administration after the onset of peritoneal fibrosis halted fibrosis progression. Gefitinib tr

SUBMITTER: Wang L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5004637 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature