Peritoneal fibrosis and the putative role of decorin

Abstract

SummaryInduction of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in mesothelial cells during peritoneal dialysis (PD) and peritonitis is an orchestrated process characterized by the loss of cell–cell contact, reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton, basement membrane degradation, and acquisition of a migratory and invasive phenotype. EMT contributes to peritoneal fibrosis, which can lead to the failure of PD as a treatment modality for patients with end-stage renal disease. Decorin is a dermatan sulfate proteoglycan that possesses antifibrotic properties and has been shown to suppress tissue fibrosis. This review will discuss changes observed in the mesothelium during PD, induction of EMT and peritoneal fibrosis, and the potential beneficial effect of decorin in the intervention of peritoneal fibrosis