Effects of pentoxifylline, pentifylline and γ‐interferon on proliferation, differentiation, and matrix synthesis of human renal fibroblasts.

Background. Kidneys that progress to end‐stage renal failure are almost invariably characterized by the presence of tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Therapeutic interventions to halt the progressive deterioration of renal function are still limited. Pentoxifylline, pentifylline, and γ‐interferon have shown a potential benefit in the treatment of fibrotic processes in the skin and lung. Thus, the aim of the present study was the analysis of potential anti‐fibrotic effects of these substances on human kidney fibroblasts in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]