TGF-β1 promotes transition of mesothelial cells into fibroblast phenotype in response to peritoneal injury in a cell culture model

BackgroundPeritoneal adhesions are a clinical problem. A key to the understanding of peritoneal adhesions is to study the healing of mesothelial cells within the peritoneal cavity following surgery. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-βs) affects this healing process. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different concentrations of TGF-β1 on the healing rate and healing properties of mesothelial cells.Materials and methodsHuman mesothelial cells from peritoneal fluid were collected, cultured and a mechanical wound was created. The restoration of the mesothelial surface with and without increasing concentrations of TGF-β1 was monitored.ResultsThe denuded area was restored within 24 h. The healing rate was most extensive between the first and second hour after the damage (61.9 ± 22.8 μm/h). No significant difference in healing rate were observed when increasing levels of TGF-β1 were used. However, higher concentrations of TGF-β1 increased cell size and the cells presented more fibroblast specific properties. Lower TGF-β1 concentrations increased the number of proliferating cells.ConclusionsThis study indicates the importance of high levels TGF-β1 in mesothelial cell healing, mainly by changing the actual healing properties of the cells. Elevated levels of TGF-β1 might promote mesothelial cell transition towards a more fibroblast-like appearance.