Laminin and transforming growth factor beta-1 in children with vesicoureteric reflux

High-grade vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) promotes the development of renal nephropathy (RN) due to scar formation. This process involves transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF beta₁), which stimulates production of the extracellular matrix proteins, including laminin (LN). The aim of the study was to assess LN and TGF beta₁ concentration according to VUR grade. The study group (1) consisted of 54 patients aged 6.23 ± 4.15 years with VUR, including: A, 19 with grade II; B, 19 with grade III; and C, 16 with grades IV or V reflux. The control group (2) contained 27 healthy patients aged 6.76 ± 4.02 years. LN and total TGF beta₁ concentrations in serum and urine were determined by the immunoenzymatic (EIA) method. To assess total serum TGF beta₁ levels, we used a solid-phase enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Both serum and urinary levels of LN and TGF beta₁ in VUR patients were higher compared with controls (p < 0.05). The highest urinary concentration of LN and TGF beta₁ was found in subgroup C. A positive correlation was noted between urinary TGF beta₁ and LN. Increased TGF-beta₁ and LN levels in urine of high-grade VUR children suggests a potential role in fibrogenesis. Further trials are needed to investigate the role of serum and urinary LN level in VUR children.