الفهرس 
INTRODUCTION AND AIM OF THE STUDYOnly 14 pages are availabe for public view
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Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) is a multifunctionally acting peptide with a broad spectrum of cellular targets. The biologic function ofthis peptide
1s ctmently widely studied. These studies reveal remarkable effects on proliferation, differentiation, migration, and production of many cell types. Among these effects, the regulatory function of TGF-beta in extracellular matrix homeostasis is thought to represent a major part of its action, mediating various other effects. Because disturbance of the regulation of extracellular matrix production is involved in various diseases.
The study was conducted on 51 nephrotic syndrome
.’patients during activity of disease as proved by 24 hours proteinuria. Their ages ranged between two and 12 years. They were 33 males and 18 females, they were randomly selected from patients attending the pediatric Nephrology clinic or admitted at Cairo-University children hospital. They were classified according to their response into:
1- Steroid sensitive group:
lt included 40 patients 15 cases were females representing (35%) and 25 cases were males representing (65%) the male to female ratio was (1.8:1).
2- Steroid resistant group:
It included 11 patients 3 cases were females representing
(33%) and 8 cases were males representing (67%).
3- Control groups:
It included 15 children, (6) cases were females representing (40%) and 9 cases were males representing (60%), they were asymptotic of any acute or chronic illness and without any history of renal, liver disease, malignancy a\or diabetes mellitus.
All patient were subjected to the following:
• Full detailed history and complete clinical examination.