Objective:To determine the relation between transforming growth factor β 1 （TGF-β 1）in allograft and chronic allograft nephropathy （CAN）.Methods:Urine TGF-β 1 relative concentration（divided by urine creatinine） was tested in 181 recipients whose renal function were normal between August 1

2000 and June 31

2001.25 cases with higher urine TGF-β 1 relative concentrations were assigned to group A

other 25 cases with lower urine TGF-β 1 to group B.In both groups biopsies were carried out in 16 cases and 13 cases respectively.TGF-β 1 mRNA in the biopsis was tested by RT-PCR.Blood TGF-β 1 concentrations in the two groups were also tested.Three years later

the renal function was compared between the two groups.The correlation between expression of TGF-β 1mRNA and long-term renal function was determined.Biopsies were carried out in renal recipients whose creatinine was higher than normal.Results:Blood TGF-β 1 concentrations in the two groups were not significantly different

3 years after transplantation

there was more loss of renal function and larger number of chronic allograft nephropathy （CAN） cases in group A than group B.Expression of TGF-β 1mRNA in the allografts was found more in group A than in group B.The difference in the two groups was significant.There was a correlation between expression of TGF-β 1mRNA and long-term renal function.Conclusion:The findings suggest expression of TGF-β 1mRNA in the allografts is associated with chronic allograft nephropathy.The level of urine TGF-β

1

after renal transplantation can predict long-term renal function.