Modulators of crescentic glomerulonephritis

Abstract

Glomerular crescent formation is a prominent feature of aggressive forms of glomerulonephritis and is associated with a poor prognosis. An understanding of the mechanisms involved in crescent formation is crucial for the development of new therapies for this disease. This article reviews current ideas on the pathogenesis of glomerular crescent formation and describes methods for modulation of this process. Emphasis is given to the role of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in crescent development and its modulation by cytokine blockade.