Objective: To explore the effects of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) on the activity of NF-kappaB and fibronectin (Fn) synthesis in the endothelial cells in aged rats.
Methods: Endothelial cells were cultured in M199 from the aorta of 24 month old rats and divided into 3 groups: Group A (5 mmol/L glucose) as controls, Group B (25 mg/L AGEs for 48 h), and Group C (50 mg/L AGEs for 48 h). The activity of NF-kappaB was evaluated by immunofluorescence and the expression of Fn mRNA was measured by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
Results: Compared with the controls, AGEs induced the activity of NF-kappaB and increased the Fn mRNA expression in a concentration-dependent manner (P<0.05).
Conclusion: The activity of NF-kappaB and up-regulated expression of Fn mRNA induced by AGEs may contribute to chronic complications of diabetes.