The Research Progress of PDGF-C/PDGFR-a Signaling Pathway in Renal Fibrosis and its Traditional Chinese Medicine Intervention

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a valuable heritage of human experience [1]. Salvia (dan shen) is one of the most widely used herbs in TCM for treating kidney diseases. Whereas, Salvianolic acid A, B and C are Salvia’s important component. The component compatibility of them for renal fibrosis is a doable and innovative proposition. The literature describing intervention effect of compatibility of Salvia miltiorrhiza water-soluble active components on PDGF-C/PDGFR-α signaling pathway in renal fibrosis. The summary of renal fibrosis, the etiology and pathogenesis of PDGF-C/PDGFR-α signaling pathway and the development in the research of TCM intervention were all examined. PDGF-C and PDGFR-α contribute to the formation of the renal cortical interstitium. Almost all experimental and human renal diseases are characterized by altered expression of the PDGF-C/PDGFR-α signaling pathway. Accordingly, component compatibility of TCM is an effective treatment for renal fibrosis, which is a most innovative application. It can improve renal function, renal tubular function and kidney pathology both in animal experiments and cell culture. Accordingly, it probably has a certain protective effect to the kidney.