[Effects of exendin-4 on extracellular matrix metabolism in human mesangial cells cultured in high glucose].

OBJECTIVE: To explore effects of exendin-4 on the metabolism of extracellular matrix (ECM) in human mesangial cells (HMC) cultured in the presence of high glucose and explore the possible mechanism. METHODS: Human mesangial cells (HMC) were treated with exendin-4 under high glucose conditions. The cell proliferation was observed using CCK8 assay, and the expressions of collagen type I, fibronectin, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1) expression and extracellular signal- regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathway activity were assessed using Western blotting. RESULTS: Exendin-4 inhibited cell proliferation and the expressions of collagen type I, fibronectin and TGFβ1 and reversed ERK phosphorylation in high glucose-induced HMC. CONCLUSION: Exendin-4 can regulate ECM metabolism in HMC cultured in high glucose by inhibiting TGFβ1/ERK pathway, suggesting the beneficial effects of exendin-4 in preventing and treating diabetic nephropathy.