Figure 4.

Examination of immunofluorescence staining and the percent area stained in NRK‐49F cells. NRK‐49F cells were stimulated by S1P, and after FTY720 or DMS addition, the cells were evaluated by immunofluorescence staining for a‐SMA and fibronectin (A). The percent area of the cells stained was evaluated (B). FTY720 and DMS pretreatment significantly inhibited S1P‐induced a‐SMA and fibronectin expression. Data are presented as means ± SE. *P < 0.05. NRK‐49F, normal rat kidney interstitial fibroblast; DMS, N,N‐dimethylsphingosine; a‐SMA, alpha‐smooth muscle actin; S1P, sphingosine‐1‐phosphate.