bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Noninvasive measurement of intrarenal blood flow distribution: kinetic model of renal 123I-hippuran handling
Authors: Janssen W. M. , Beekhuis H. , de Bruin R. , de Jong P. E. , de Zeeuw D.
Published: December 2017

A new technique for noninvasive measurement of intrarenal blood flow distribution over cortex and medulla is proposed. The technique involves analysis of 123I-labeled hippuran renography, according to a kinetic model that describes the flow of 123I-hippuran from the heart (input) through the renal cortex and medulla to the bladder (output). The method is validated and compared with the standard microsphere injection technique in anesthetized dogs. Changes in intrarenal blood flow distribution were induced by infusion of placebo (n = 6), angiotensin I (n = 5), or atrial natriuretic factor (n = 5). Baseline percentage medullary blood flow in the left kidney was 12 +/- 1% of total renal blood flow measured with microspheres and 15 +/- 1% with renography. During infusion of the placebo, medullary blood flow decreased slightly compared with baseline, as measured with both methods, by 2 +/- 6 (microspheres) and 1 +/- 8% (renography). Infusion of angiotensin I caused a marked fall in medullary blood flow by 42 +/- 11 (microspheres) and 57 +/- 8% (renography). In contrast, infusion of atrial natriuretic factor caused a small rise in medullary blood flow as measured with both methods (9 +/- 3 and 12 +/- 11%, respectively). The absolute and percent changes in medullary blood flow measured with renography correlated with those measured with microspheres (left kidney: r = 0.67, P = 0.005; r = 0.71, P = 0.003, respectively; right kidney: r = 0.62, P = 0.01; r = 0.68, P = 0.004, respectively). We conclude that the proposed kinetic model of renal 123I-hippuran handling can be used to measure changes in intrarenal blood flow distribution and, because of its noninvasive character, may be of use in clinical studies.
Renal inner medullary sorbitol metabolism
Authors: Grunewald R. W. , Weber I. I. , Kinne R. K.
Published: December 2017

Sorbitol participates in the osmoregulation of several renal cells and has also been found in isolated inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) cells in primary culture. Therefore, osmotic regulation and distribution of sorbitol and the key enzymes of sorbitol metabolism, aldose reductase and sorbitol dehydrogenase in the renal inner medulla, were investigated in vivo under various osmotic conditions (control, diuresis, antidiuresis). In homogenates of the renal inner medulla of Wistar rats, the sorbitol content correlated with the urine osmolarity [68 +/- 12 mumol/g protein (control), 28 +/- 9 mumol/g (diuresis), 110 +/- 15 mumol/g (antidiuresis)]. Similar results were obtained for the activity of aldose reductase (sorbitol synthesis) [25 +/- 4 U/g (control), 19 +/- 3 U/g (diuresis), and 48 +/- 7 U/g (antidiuresis)]. On the contrary, the activity of sorbitol dehydrogenase (sorbitol degradation) was significantly increased to 1.26 +/- 0.42 U/g under diuretic conditions vs. control (0.84 +/- 0.14 U/g, P < 0.05). These results demonstrate the correlation between the enzymes of sorbitol synthesis and sorbitol degradation in the intact inner medulla and the urine osmolarity in vivo. Whereas the aldose reductase activity was 2.3-fold enriched in IMCD cells, the specific activity of sorbitol dehydrogenase was relatively increased in a preparation of enriched interstitial cells. This distribution was not dependent on the various diuretic conditions. These results indicate that enzymes of synthesis and of degradation of sorbitol are osmotically regulated in vivo. Therefore, the enzymatic activities of sorbitol synthesis appear to be primarily located in epithelial cells, whereas enzymatic activities of sorbitol degradation seem to be localized in interstitial cells of the renal inner medulla.
Renal actions of angiotensin-(1-7): in vivo and in vitro studies
Authors: Handa R. K. , Ferrario C. M. , Strandhoy J. W.
Published: December 2017

In vivo studies were conducted in Na-replete anesthetized male Wistar rats with denervated kidneys. Intrarenal injections of angiotensin-(1–7) [ANG-(1–7) at > 1 nmol/kg produced a shallow dose-dependent decrease in renal blood flow that was mediated by the AT1-type ANG II receptor. A constant intrarenal infusion of ANG-(1–7) at 0.1 and 1 nmol.min-1.kg-1 had minimal effects on renal blood flow and blood pressure and resulted in an elevated urinary excretion of Na and water compared with the time-control saline-infused group. To determine whether ANG-(1–7) may have a direct action on tubular epithelium to inhibit Na reabsorption, we examined the effect of ANG-(1–7) on transport-dependent O2 consumption (Qo2) in fresh suspensions of rat proximal tubules in vitro. ANG-(1–7) inhibited Qo2 in a concentration-dependent fashion with a threshold concentration of approximately 100 pM. Stimulating Na-K-adenosinetriphosphatase (Na-K-ATPase) activity with nystatin caused a leftward shift of the inhibitory concentration-response curve to ANG-(1–7). The 22% inhibition of Qo2 by 1 pM ANG-(1–7) was abolished by pretreatment with 5 mM ouabain (Na-K-ATPase inhibitor), unaltered by pretreatment with 1 microM PD-123319 (AT2 receptor antagonist), partially attenuated by 1 microM losartan (AT1 receptor antagonist), and abolished by 1 microM [Sar1, Thr8]ANG II (nonselective ANG receptor antagonist). Together these findings indicate that ANG-(1–7) has biological activity in the kidney and, at nonvasoconstrictor doses, results in increased Na and water excretion in vivo. One site of action is the proximal tubule, where ANG-(1–7) can inhibit an ouabain-sensitive Na-K-ATPase exit step in cellular Na transport. This novel inhibitory action of ANG-(1–7) appears to be mediated by an AT1 receptor (minor component) and a non-AT1, non-AT2 ANG receptor (major component).
Stimulation of rat mesangial cell thromboxane A2 receptors inhibits particulate but not soluble guanylyl cyclase
Authors: Paul R. V. , Saxenhofer H. , Wackym P. S. , Halushka P. V.
Published: December 2017

Thromboxane A2 (TxA2) participates in the pathogenesis of clinical and experimental glomerular disease. We performed radioligand binding and functional studies of TxA2 receptors in rat mesangial cells. Competitive inhibition of specific binding of the TxA2 analogue [125I]BOP by unlabeled antagonists in intact cells or membranes was observed, with a rank order potency of SQ-29548 (half-maximal inhibitory concentration = 3.4 nM > L-657925 (21 nM) > GR-32191 (200 nM) > L-657926 (1,300 nM). The potency of agonists was I-BOP (0.43 nM) > ONO-11113 (6.7 nM) > U-46619 (80 nM). U-46619 and unlabeled I-BOP inhibited the rate of net guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate accumulation in cells exposed to atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) but not the nitric oxide donor nitroprusside. Membranes from cells exposed to I-BOP for 10 min exhibited a 38% decrease in ANP-responsive guanylyl cyclase activity. U-46619 blocked the inhibitory effect of ANP on serum-stimulated [3H]thymidine incorporation but not that of nitroprusside. In summary, we describe a novel effect mediated by a mesangial cell TxA2 receptor, i.e., inhibition of ANP signaling.
Indirect coupling of urate and p-aminohippurate transport to sodium in human brush-border membrane vesicles
Authors: Roch-Ramel F. , Guisan B. , Schild L.
Published: December 2017

[14C]urate and p-[14C]aminohippurate (PAH) uptake by human brush-border membrane vesicles (BBMV) were measured in the presence of an inwardly oriented sodium gradient. No direct sodium cotransport was observed. Indirect [14C]urate coupling to sodium transport was demonstrated by cis-stimulation of [14C]urate with nicotinate or pyrazinoate (PZA) in the extravesicular medium but not by adding lactate, alpha-ketoglutarate, or beta-hydroxybutyrate. Indirect sodium coupling of [14C]PAH uptake was observed only when alpha-ketoglutarate was added to the extravesicular medium, a mechanism similar to that of basolateral membranes. The ability for PZA (and nicotinate) to cis-stimulate urate uptake was correlated with a high apparent affinity for the urate/anion exchanger. In urate-loaded vesicles, for identical medium concentrations, [14C]PZA uptake via the urateanion exchanger was 10 times higher than [14C]lactate uptake. Such high PZA affinity for the urate exchanger, working in parallel with PZA sodium cotransport can account for the stimulation of urate reabsorption by PZA in vivo.
Osmotic regulation of sorbitol in the thick ascending limb of Henle's loop
Authors: Eckstein A. , Grunewald R. W.
Published: December 2017

Organic osmolytes, such as sorbitol, inositol, glycerophosphorylcholine, and betaine, play an important role in the osmoregulation of inner medullary cells of the kidney. The cells of the outer medulla are also exposed to elevated NaCl and urea concentrations during antidiuresis. Therefore, we investigated the mechanisms involved in the regulation of outer medullary organic osmolytes, especially cell sorbitol content of immortalized epithelial cells of the thick ascending limb of Henle's loop (TALH). In the cultured cell model, a 600 mosmol/l medium (osmolarity adjusted by addition of 150 mM NaCl or 300 mM sucrose) increased the intracellular sorbitol content significantly compared with a 300 mosmol/l medium. The accumulation of sorbitol appeared to be due to an increase of aldose reductase activity, which catalyzed sorbitol synthesis. Sorbitol degradation by sorbitol dehydrogenase was not detectable under our experimental conditions. After a sudden decrease of the extracellular osmolarity, the sorbitol permeability of the cellular membrane increased sevenfold within 10 min compared with isosmolar conditions. These results indicate that sorbitol, like inositol, plays an important role in the osmoregulation of TALH cells. Although the short-term regulation involves rapid changes in sorbitol membrane permeability, the longterm adaptation to low osmolarities is regulated by intracellular sorbitol synthesis.
Regulation of glomerular volume in normal and partially nephrectomized rats
Authors: Cortes P. , Zhao X. , Riser B. L. , Narins R. G.
Published: December 2017

Glomerular extracellular matrix accumulation may derive from the stretching of mesangial cells caused by excessive glomerular dilatation. The relationship of glomerular volume (VG) to intraglomerular pressure, expressed as compliance or as mean VG in the isolated, perfused rat glomerulus, was used to analyze factors that regulate VG. Glomeruli were highly distensible over the normal and relevant abnormal range of pressure. Compliance increased directly with basal VG (P < 0.001), i.e., larger glomeruli dilated more than smaller ones at any given pressure. Perfusion with atrial natriuretic peptide did not alter compliance, and inhibitors of nitric oxide synthesis exerted only a trivial effect. VG expansion was consistently reduced by angiotensin II, but this effect was small (3.8%, P < 0.001). After subtotal nephrectomy, compliance increased by 59% in the remnant glomeruli (P < 0.001); 22% of this increase was attributable to structural changes, and the remainder was attributable to the large basal VG of the hypertrophied glomeruli. Thus the major determinants of VG expansion include capillary wall tension, basal VG, and intrinsic distensibility, which is markedly influenced by the character of the extracellular matrix and only slightly altered by an angiotensin II-modified mesangial cell tone.
Na-K-ATPase along rat nephron after subtotal nephrectomy: effect of enalapril
Authors: Terzi F. , Cheval L. , Barlet-Bas C. , Younes-Ibrahim M. , Buffin-Meyer B. , Burtin M. , Beaufils H. , Marsy S. , Girolami J. P. , Kleinknecht C. , Doucet A.
Published: December 2017

Tubular overwork is thought to be a promoter of the tubular hypertrophy and renal failure that occur in response to renal mass reduction. Because Na-K-adenosinetriphosphatase (Na-K-ATPase) is an index of tubular work, we evaluated the effects of subtotal nephrectomy and of enalapril therapy, which delays the evolution of renal lesions, on tubular hypertrophy and Na-K-ATPase activity along the rat nephron. Within 6 wk, 70% reduction of renal mass engendered hypertrophy of the proximal convoluted tubule (PCT), thick ascending limb (TAL), and collecting duct (CD), as well as parallel increments in Na-K-ATPase activity per millimeter tubule length (Na-K-ATPase activity per unit surface area was not modified by subtotal nephrectomy). Chronic enalapril therapy prevented part of the hypertrophy (but not Na-K-ATPase stimulation) of the PCT and the whole stimulation of Na-K-ATPase (but not hypertrophy) in the CD, whereas it had no effect on the TAL. Enalapril effect on Na-K-ATPase in CD might result from reduced bradykinin metabolism, as the reduction in urinary excretion of bradykinin observed in subtotally nephrectomized rats was prevented by enalapril therapy.
Expression of the renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D-24-hydroxylase gene: regulation by dietary phosphate
Authors: Wu S. , Finch J. , Zhong M. , Slatopolsky E. , Grieff M. , Brown A. J.
Published: December 2017

1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3] plays a key role in phosphate (Pi) homeostasis through its phosphatemic actions on intestine and bone. In turn, dietary Pi restriction increases serum 1,25(OH)2D3 by stimulating its production, but its effect on vitamin D catabolism is less clear. Here we have examined the effects of dietary Pi on the expression of the renal vitamin D-24-hydroxylase (24-OHase), the first enzyme in the catabolic pathway for vitamin D compounds. Rats fed a low Pi (0.02% P) diet showed a fivefold decrease in renal 24-OHase mRNA compared with rats fed a normal Pi (0.67% P) diet. 24-OHase mRNA and 24-OHase activity decreased within 24 h of Pi restriction, reached a minimum by 48 h, and remained low through 14 days. Decreased 24-OHase mRNA was observed with more moderate Pi restriction (0.2% P), but higher Pi (1.2% P) did not increase 24-OHase mRNA over the 0.8% P diet. 24-OHase mRNA correlated well with plasma Pi (r = 0.862, P < 0.001). In conclusion, renal 24-OHase expression is regulated by dietary phosphate at the mRNA level.
Impaired effect of nitric oxide synthesis inhibition on tubuloglomerular feedback in hypertensive rats
Authors: Thorup C. , Persson A. E.
Published: December 2017

Experiments were conducted to compare the effects of intratubular inhibition [N omega-nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA)] of nitric oxide (NO) on the tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF) mechanism between anesthetized spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY) and between the Milan hypertensive (MHS) and the Milan normotensive (MNS) strains of rats. Changes in proximal tubular stop-flow pressure (Psf) in response to various loop of Henle perfusion rates and measurements of early proximal flow rate (EPFR) were used to characterize TGF. Maximal drop in Psf (delta Psf) were used to indicate TGF reactivity and the flow rate eliciting half-maximal delta Psf (turning point; TP) to indicate TGF sensitivity. Under control conditions, TGF sensitivity was significantly higher in SHR than in WKY, but, after L-NNA infusion, TP was decreased in WKY and not in SHR. L-NNA infusion increased delta Psf by 95% in WKY but to a lesser extent (by 26%) in SHR. In the same way, L-NNA decreased TP in MNS but not in MHS. The increase in delta Psf was 99% in MNS but only 32% in MHS. The EPFR reduction after TGF activation was significantly increased in WKY and MNS but relatively unchanged in SHR and MHS. The results show that the effect of intratubular NO synthase inhibition on TGF is impaired in both strains of hypertensive rats.
Reabsorption of native and glycated albumin by renal proximal tubular epithelial cells
Authors: Bendayan M. , Londono I.
Published: December 2017

The proximal tubule epithelial handling of native and glycated albumin was evaluated by quantitative immunocytochemistry. Native bovine serum albumin (BSA) and its glycated form (gBSA), tagged to different haptens, were simultaneously injected in anesthetized mice and maintained in circulation for 10 or 60 min. Both albumins were localized within the capillary lumen, in glomerular and peritubular basement membranes, the urinary space, and cellular compartments of the proximal tubular epithelial cells. In these cells, both forms of albumin were concomitantly found within the same endocytic-lysosomal system. Morphometric evaluations have indicated higher proportions of gBSA in the urinary space, reflecting probably a significant glomerular filtration of this form of albumin combined to a lesser reabsorptive clearance. Indeed, higher proportions of native BSA were found in the endocytic compartment of the tubular epithelial cells, suggesting its preferential reabsorption. The present study thus supports a preferential glomerular filtration of gBSA with a facilitated filtration of native BSA in the presence of the glycated one. It also demonstrates the tubular reabsorption of BSA and gBSA through a common endocytic pathway, in which the native BSA is preferentially reabsorbed with respect to its glycated form.
Functional characterization of albumin binding to the apical membrane of OK cells
Authors: Gekle M. , Mildenberger S. , Freudinger R. , Silbernagl S.
Published: December 2017

We characterized binding of albumin to the apical membrane of opossum kidney (OK) cells using fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-albumin (i.e., bovine serum albumin, BSA) as substrate. Functional analysis of binding data showed one specific binding site characterized by half-maximal binding (Michaelis constant, (Km) at 20 mg/l (300 nmol/l) and maximal binding capacity (Bmax) of 0.61 microgram/mg cellular protein. Excess of unlabeled albumin (BSA) inhibited binding at low concentrations of FITC-albumin completely but only partially at high concentrations. FITC-albumin binding was reversible and pH dependent. Km increased about sixfold when pH decreased from 7.4 to 5.0. The inhibitory effects of conalbumin, alpha-lactalbumin, and transferrin were significantly smaller compared with BSA. We conclude that OK cells express a high-affinity binding site for albumin on the apical membrane. This binding site is pH sensitive, binds albumin in the physiological range, and could be responsible for the effective receptor-mediated reabsorption of albumin in the proximal tubule.
Albumin endocytosis is regulated by heterotrimeric GTP-binding protein G alpha i-3 in opossum kidney cells
Authors: Brunskill N. J. , Cockcroft N. , Nahorski S. , Walls J.
Published: December 2017

Proteinuria is an adverse feature in patients with renal disease, possibly due to toxicity of albumin to proximal tubular cells. Albumin is reabsorbed from tubular fluid by receptor-mediated endocytosis. The mechanism of regulation of the endocytosis is unknown. The large quantities of G proteins in proximal tubular cell apical membranes suggests that they may have a regulatory role in endocytosis. 125I-labeled albumin uptake was measured in opossum kidney (OK) cells. This is a saturable process with high-affinity [apparent dissociation constant (Kd) = 24.3 mg/l] and low-affinity (Kd = 15.9 g/l) components. The endocytic uptake of gold-albumin into OK cells was confirmed by electron microscopy. 125I-albumin endocytosis in OK cells was inhibited by pertussis toxin, but cholera toxin had no effect. Pertussis toxin also inhibited uptake of [3H]inulin. OK cells were stably transfected with a cDNA for the G protein subunit G alpha i-3 and transfectants were screened by immunoblotting. Several G alpha i-3-overexpressing clones were detected. OK cells overexpressing G alpha i-3 demonstrate increased 125I-albumin uptake, which is abolished by pertussis toxin, in both a concentration- and time-dependent manner. These results suggest that albumin endocytosis in OK cells is regulated by the G protein G alpha i-3.
Extracellular matrix stimulates production and breakdown of inositol phospholipids
Authors: Cybulsky A. V. , McTavish A. J. , Papillon J.
Published: December 2017

Adhesion of rat glomerular epithelial cells (GEC) to collagen stimulates production of D-myo-inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) and 1,2-diacylglycerol. This process is mediated via beta 1-integrins, and it modulates GEC proliferation. In this study, we address the changes in inositol-lipid turnover induced by GEC adhesion to extracellular matrix (ECM). The masses of both phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) and IP3, as well as [3H]inositol phosphates, were increased in GEC adherent to collagen, compared with plastic substratum. Phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate (PIP) 5-kinase activity was predominantly membrane associated and was enhanced in GEC on collagen. Phospholipase C (PLC) activity and PLC-gamma 1 protein were increased in membrane fractions of GEC adherent to collagen, compared with plastic. Stable overexpression of PLC-gamma 1 in GEC amplified the effect of ECM on the production of [3H]inositol phosphates. In addition, the PLC-gamma 1 that was membrane associated in collagen-adherent GEC was tyrosine phosphorylated. Thus production of IP3 in GEC adherent to ECM is associated with increased production of PIP2. Moreover, adhesion to ECM increases tyrosine phosphorylation and membrane association of PLC-gamma 1, which may facilitate PIP2 hydrolysis by increasing the catalytic activity of PLC-gamma 1 and the proximity of PLC-gamma 1 and its substrate. Understanding the process of ECM-induced inositol lipid production and breakdown in GEC may provide insights into the regulation of GEC proliferation and differentiated functions in normal conditions and during glomerular injury.
Enhanced renal sensitivity to angiotensin actions in diabetes mellitus in the rat
Authors: Kennefick T. M. , Oyama T. T. , Thompson M. M. , Vora J. P. , Anderson S.
Published: December 2017

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy. In diabetes, renal RAS components are dysregulated, potentially increasing renal RAS effects. To explore the renal RAS, studies were conducted in control and diabetic rats. In both groups, intravenous angiotensin (ANG) I and ANG II produced similar increases in mean arterial pressure (MAP). In contrast, glomerular filtration rate defined only in diabetic rats. Renal plasma flow fell in both groups but decreased more in diabetic rats. Additional groups were given the same dose of ANG I directly into the left renal artery, and hemodynamics were studied in the treated and untreated kidneys. In contrast to the intravenous studies, intra-arterial ANG I had no effect on MAP in either group. The renal hemodynamic effects were similar to those in intravenous studies. Additionally, diabetic rats exhibited enhanced hemodynamic sensitivity in the untreated kidney, suggesting that renal effects could occur at nonpressor concentrations of circulating ANG II. Thus renal (but not systemic) responsiveness to angiotensins is enhanced in diabetic rats.
Ontogeny of apical membrane ion conductances and channel expression in cortical collecting duct cells
Authors: Huber S. M. , Horster M. F.
Published: December 2017

Ontogeny of apical-basolateral epithelial cell polarity was studied by a comparison of embryonic ureteric bud (UB) and mature cortical collecting duct (CCD) primary cultures. Patch-clamp techniques were applied to identify apical ion channels and to measure specific conductance (in nS/10 pF) of the apical membrane (ga) and of the whole cell (Gw). In UB, Gw (1.3 +/- 0.17; n = 32) and ga (1.4 +/- 0.15; n = 9) were not different, whereas they differed greatly in CCD (Gw: 0.79 +/- 0.07, n = 35; ga: 2.3 +/- 0.38, n = 9). In UB, 4,4'-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid (DIDS) (100 microM) similarly reduced ga and Gw by 0.66 +/- 0.21 (n = 9) and 0.48 +/- 0.07 (n = 7), respectively, whereas DIDS had no effect in CCD. Amiloride (1 mM) did not alter UB conductance, whereas, in CCD, ga was more reduced than Gw (0.75 +/- 0.18, n = 8, vs. 0.22 +/- 0.10, n = 7). In addition to this Na(+)-selective conductance, a nonselective cation (NSC) conductance was enriched sixfold in the apical membrane of CCD, possibly due to apical 9 +/- 1-pS (n = 7) NSC channels, whereas UB apical NSC conductance was low. Apical 16 +/- 2-pS (n = 6) K+ channels were identified in CCD but not in UB. The comparison of both developmental states suggests a differentiation of the apical membrane during UB to CCD ontogeny.
Expression and cellular localization of tissue kallikrein-kinin system in human adrenal gland
Authors: Wang D. Z. , Song Q. , Chen L. M. , Chao L. , Chao J.
Published: December 2017

The tissue kallikrein-kinin system has been implicated in regulating blood pressure and electrolyte homeostasis. To understand the function of this system, we identified the expression and cellular localization of its components including tissue kallikrein, kallistatin, kininogen, and bradykinin B1 and B2 receptors in human adrenal gland. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction followed by Southern blot analysis showed that these five components of this system were all expressed in human adrenal gland. In situ hybridization histochemistry with respective digoxigenin-labeled antisense riboprobes revealed localization of kallikrein transcript throughout the adrenal cortex and medulla except the zona glomerulosa, whereas kallistatin mRNA was only localized in the zona fasciculata. Low-molecular-weight kininogen and B2 receptor mRNAs were colocalized in the zona glomerulosa and zona fasciculata and also in the zona reticularis and chromaffin cells but to a lesser degree. The B1 receptor mRNA was stained in the zona fasciculata and medulla. These results show the expression and differential colocalization of the components of the tissue kallikrein-kinin system and reveal the potential action sites of this system in the adrenal gland.
Proximal tubule dysfunction in cystine-loaded tubules: effect of phosphate and metabolic substrates
Authors: Bajaj G. , Baum M.
Published: December 2017

Intracellular cystine loading by use of cystine dimethyl ester (CDME) results in a generalized inhibition in proximal tubule transport due, in part, to a decrease in intracellular ATP. The present study examined the importance of phosphate and metabolic substrates in the proximal tubule dysfunction produced by cystine loading. Proximal tubule intracellular phosphorus was 1.8 +/- 0.1 in control tubules and 1.1 +/- 0.1 nmol/mg protein in proximal tubules incubated in vitro with CDME P < 0.001). Infusion of sodium phosphate in rabbits and subsequent incubation of proximal tubules with a high-phosphate medium attenuated the decrease in proximal tubule respiration and prevented the decrease in intracellular ATP with cystine loading. Tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates have been shown to preserve oxidative metabolism in phosphate-depleted proximal tubules. In proximal tubules incubated with either 1 mM valerate or butyrate, there was a 42 and 34% reduction (both P < 0.05) in the rate of oxygen consumption with cystine loading. However, tubules incubated with 1 mM succinate or citrate had only a 13 and 14% P = NS) reduction in the rate of oxygen consumption, respectively. These data are consistent with a limitation of intracellular phosphate in the pathogenesis of the proximal tubule dysfunction with cystine loading.
Characterization of a B2-bradykinin receptor in human glomerular podocytes
Authors: Ardaillou N. , Blaise V. , Costenbader K. , Vassitch Y. , Ardaillou R.
Published: December 2017

We characterized bradykinin (BK) receptors in a human line of glomerular visceral epithelial cells (hGVEC) transfected by the SV40 virus. [3H]BK bound specifically in a manner consistent with a single high-affinity site. Scatchard analysis yielded dissociation constant and maximum binding values of 0.28 +/- 0.04 nM and 76.6 +/- 4.9 fmol/mg, respectively. Competition binding studies with selective BK type 2 (Hoe-140) receptor antagonist and type 1 ([des-Arg9]BK) receptor agonist showed that hGVEC only expressed type 2 receptors, and this was confirmed by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and ribonuclease protection assay. BK stimulated intracellular calcium ion concentration ([Ca2+]i) release in a dose-dependent manner with a threshold at 1 nM. Hoe-140, in contrast with [des-Arg9]BK, abolished this effect. [Ca2+]i stimulation was also inhibited by thapsigargin, an inhibitor of Ca(2+)-adenosinetriphosphatase. Ethylene glycol-bis(beta-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid attenuated but did not suppress the [Ca2+]i peak. These results associated with the stimulatory effect of BK on inositol phosphate production indicated that [Ca2+]i stimulation was produced both by [Ca2+] mobilization from its intracellular stores and by [Ca2+] entry into the cells. In conclusion, hGVEC express specific type 2 BK receptors that enable specific BK-induced responses.
Developmental changes in rabbit juxtamedullary proximal convoluted tubule water permeability
Authors: Quigley R. , Baum M.
Published: December 2017

The mammalian proximal tubule reabsorbs the bulk of the glomerular filtrate in a nearly isosmotic fashion due to the high osmotic water permeability (Pf) of this segment. Although the characteristics of proximal tubule water transport have been studied in the adult proximal tubule, little is known about the neonatal segment. The present study directly measured the Pf and diffusional water permeability (PDW) of neonatal (10 +/- 2 day old) and adult rabbit juxtamedullary proximal convoluted tubules (PCT) using in vitro microperfusion. The Pf of neonatal juxtamedullary PCT was greater than the Pf of adult juxtamedullary PCT. In contrast, the PDW was not different between the two groups. The Pf and PDW values of both neonatal and adult tubules were inhibited to the same degree by p-chloromercuribenzene sulfonate and had identical activation energies. The transepithelial reflection coefficients of NaCl and NaHCO3 were also found to be similar in both the neonatal and adult proximal tubules. Thus neonatal and adult juxtamedullary PCT have many characteristics of water transport that are identical; however, neonatal Pf is three to five times that of the adult value. This difference in Pf with identical PDW values may give an insight into the transepithelial pathway for water movement in the neonatal tubule.
Permeability properties of the intact mammalian bladder epithelium
Authors: Negrete H. O. , Lavelle J. P. , Berg J. , Lewis S. A. , Zeidel M. L.
Published: December 2017

Because the mammalian bladder must store urine of composition which differs markedly from that of plasma for prolonged periods, the bladder permeability barrier must maintain extremely low permeabilities to substances which normally cross membranes relatively rapidly, such as water, protons, and small nonelectrolytes like urea and ammonia. In the present studies, permeabilities of the apical membrane of dissected rabbit bladder epithelium to water, urea, ammonia, and protons were measured in Ussing chambers and averaged (in cm/s) for water, 5.15 +/- 0.43 x 10(-5); for urea, 4.51 +/- 0.67 x 10(-6); for ammonia, 5.14 +/- 0.62 x 10(-4); and for protons, 2.98 +/- 1.87 x 10(-3), respectively. These permeability values are exceptionally low and are expected to result in minimal to no leakage of these normally permeable substances across the epithelium. Water permeabilities in intact whole rabbit bladders were indistinguishable from those obtained in the dissected epithelial preparation. Moreover, addition of nystatin to the apical solution of dissected epithelia rapidly increased water permeability in conjunction with loss of epithelial resistance. These results confirm that the apical membrane of the bladder epithelial cells represents the bladder permeability barrier. In addition, they establish a model system that will permit examination of how membrane structure reduces permeability and how epithelial injury compromises barrier function.
Immortalized rabbit cortical collecting duct cells express AT1 angiotensin II receptors
Authors: Burns K. D. , Regnier L. , Roczniak A. , Hebert R. L.
Published: December 2017

Rabbit cortical collecting duct (CCD) cells were immortalized to study angiotensin II (ANG II) signaling in the CCD. Transfected cells retained CCD properties; arginine vasopressin (AVP), prostaglandin E2, and isoproterenol (10(-7) M) all significantly stimulated adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) production; and parathyroid hormone and calcitonin had no effect on cAMP. Twenty-seven percent of transfected cells bound the beta-intercalated cell marker peanut lectin agglutinin, whereas antibodies against principal cells and alpha-intercalated cells immunolabeled 26% of cells. All cells stained with antibodies to the epithelial cell marker cytokeratin. By contrast, no immunofluorescence was observed with antibodies to smooth muscle myosin, Tamm-Horsfall protein, or factor VIII. Transfected cells demonstrated amiloride-sensitive transepithelial short-circuit current. In transfected cells, radioligand binding assays detected a single class of ANG II receptors (affinity constant = 0.78 nM), and AT1-receptor mRNA was demonstrated by Northern analysis. ANG II (10(-7) M) significantly inhibited AVP-stimulated cAMP production; lower concentrations (10(-10) M) increased phosphoinositide hydrolysis. In summary, we immortalized a rabbit CCD cell line that retains characteristic morphological and hormonal properties. These cells express AT1 receptors, coupled to inhibition of cAMP and to stimulation of phosphoinositide turnover. We postulate that these signaling pathways may mediate effects of ANG II on CCD transport and cell growth.
Regulation of Fas and Fas ligand expression in cultured murine renal cells and in the kidney during endotoxemia
Authors: Ortiz-Arduan A. , Danoff T. M. , Kalluri R. , Gonzalez-Cuadrado S. , Karp S. L. , Elkon K. , Egido J. , Neilson E. G.
Published: December 2017

Fas ligand (FasL) and Fas belong to a recently described family of cytokines and receptors with similarities to tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and its receptors. Upon engagement by specific antibodies or by FasL, Fas transduces a signal for apoptosis in permissive cells. Although apoptosis occurs during renal development and following injury to mature cells, the factors responsible for programmed renal cell death are uncertain. We have studied Fas expression by renal cells in vitro and during endotoxemia in mice. Several renal cell types, including glomerular mesangial cells and tubular epithelial cells express a Fas transcript in culture. Lipopolysaccharides (LPS), interleukin-1 beta, interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), and TNF-alpha increase the levels of Fas mRNA in cultured mesangial and tubular cells. TNF-alpha and LPS raise the level of Fas mRNA in a time- and dose-dependent manner with Fas receptor expression peaking after 72 h of exposure to LPS. Anti-Fas antibodies can induce the death of cultured mesangial cells. This cell death shows the characteristic changes of apoptosis, including DNA fragmentation and pyknotic changes of the nucleus. Increases in Fas by LPS, TNF-alpha, and IFN-gamma enhance the killing induced by the anti-Fas antibody. FasL is also expressed by cultured renal cells, and TNF-alpha treatment of mesangial cells increases its expression. In vivo, Fas mRNA is present at low level in normal kidney. LPS increases the levels of Fas mRNA and protein in kidney and produces evidence of apoptosis along nephrons. These data suggest that transcripts encoding natural FasL and Fas are induced by LPS and may play a role in endotoxemia-induced acute renal failure and organ dysfunction.
Renal alterations of atrial natriuretic peptide receptors by chronic moderate ethanol treatment
Authors: Guillaume P. , Than V. D. , Gianoulakis C. , Gutkowska J.
Published: December 2017

Previous studies have shown that chronic moderate ethanol (EtOH) consumption prevents the age-dependent increase in blood pressure. However, the physiological systems mediating the antihypertensive effects of EtOH are not known. The objective of the present studies was to investigate the effects of chronic (8 mo) moderate EtOH consumption on renal natriuretic receptors of spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) and normotensive (WKY) rats, using competitive binding assay and autoradiographic techniques. In the renal glomeruli, the maximal binding capacity (Bmax) of the heterogeneous atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) receptor population (NPR-A and NPR-C) was significantly lower in EtOH-treated SHR and WKY rats compared with water-treated controls. Quantification of receptor subtypes showed that this decrease was primarily the result of NPR-C down-regulation. The apparent dissociation constant (Kd) was also decreased by the EtOH treatment. In the renal papilla, the Bmax of the homogeneous receptor population (NPR-A) was significantly elevated by long-term EtOH consumption in both strains compared with water-treated controls. However, the Kd was unaltered by the EtOH administration. Thus EtOH treatment induced specific alterations in renal natriuretic receptors that may play a role in the "protective" effect of moderate EtOH consumption on the age-dependent increase in blood pressure.
Ischemia-induced receptor for activated C kinase (RACK1) expression in rat kidneys
Authors: Padanilam B. J. , Hammerman M. R.
Published: December 2017

Differential display-polymerase chain reaction (DD-PCR) was used to identify genes that are expressed in kidney following induction of acute ischemic renal injury. The receptor for activated C kinase (RACK1) mRNA expression in kidneys obtained from rats 12 h following ischemia is enhanced twofold compared with sham-operated rats. The maximal enhancement of expression (3.3-fold) is at 7 days following reperfusion. Expression remains elevated at 14 days. RACK1 transcripts and protein are localized to the damaged and regenerating segments of proximal tubules. At 1 day following injury, RACK1 protein is present in the epithelial cells of the damaged S3 segment and in cells sloughed into the tubular lumen. By 5 days following injury, RACK1 protein expression is enhanced in the regenerating cells relining the injured tubules of the S3 segment and in papillary proliferations within regenerating tubules. Increased expression of RACK1 could enhance the activity of PKC and, in so doing, regulate the process of regeneration of the proximal tubule following ischemic renal injury.
IGF-I receptor binding, autophosphorylation, and kinase activity in kidney and muscle of acutely uremic rats
Authors: Tsao T. , Hsu F. W. , Rabkin R.
Published: December 2017

Following acute tubular necrosis (ATN), kidney plasma membrane insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) receptor number increases markedly, although IGF-I receptor mRNA levels do not change. To determine whether this increase could represent a redistribution of intracellular receptors and whether receptor function is intact in acute uremia, rats with ATN of 2 days duration and pair-fed controls were studied. Skeletal muscle receptor binding was unchanged. In contrast, binding to receptors in solubilized cortex and isolated cortical plasma membranes increased significantly due to an increase in receptor number. However, the increase in membrane binding was threefold greater than the increase in solubilized cortex binding. This indicates that the increase in total cellular IGF-I receptors can only account for a minor portion of the increase in abundance of plasma membrane receptors number and is consistent with a redistribution of receptors from an intracellular to a membrane location as the major mechanism. Autophosphorylation and receptor kinase activity were unaffected by the uremia (blood urea nitrogen of approximately 198 mg/dl). Since these early steps of IGF-I receptor signaling are intact early in acute uremia, it is likely that at this time in the course of the disease the increase in receptor number will heighten the sensitivity to IGF-I and may thus favor its participation in renal repair.
Human leptin has natriuretic activity in the rat
Authors: Jackson E. K. , Li P.
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this study was to determine whether leptin influences renal function. Increasing doses (0.3, 1, 3, 10, and 30 microg/min; 30 min per dose) of human leptin (h-leptin) infused into the renal artery of anesthetized rats caused a twofold increase (P < 0.01) in urine volume (UV), sodium excretion rate (U(Na)V), and the ratio of U(Na)V to potassium excretion rate (U(K)V) from the ipsilateral kidney but had no effect on arterial blood pressure, renal blood flow, glomerular filtration rate, or U(K)V. Mouse leptin was inactive in the rat. In a second study, a single dose of h-leptin (30 microg/min) infused into the renal artery caused a significant twofold increase in UV and U(Na)V from the ipsilateral but not contralateral kidney and revealed a time lag (approximately 1.5 h) in the measurable response. In a third study, single doses of h-leptin were infused into the renal artery of four groups of rats (0.3, 1, 3, and 10 microg/min) for 140 min. The ratio of U(Na)V to U(K)V from the ipsilateral kidney was significantly increased by all doses of h-leptin. We conclude that h-leptin may function as a potassium-sparing diuretic/natriuretic factor.
Intra- and submembrane particle densities during CO2 stimulation of H+ secretion in turtle bladder
Authors: Kohn O. F. , Hand A. R. , Mitchell P. P. , Steinmetz P. R.
Published: December 2017

The apical cell membranes of the H+ secreting, alpha-intercalated cells of turtle urinary bladder (TB) are characterized by studs (cytoplasmic domains of V-adenosinetriphosphatase) on thin-section transmission electron microscopy and by intramembrane particles (spherical units, SPUs) occurring as rod-shaped particles on freeze-fracture electron microscopy. To examine the relationship between studs and SPUs, morphometric studies were carried out on bladders maintained in 5% CO2 and in the absence of exogenous CO2. The stud density per square micrometer of apical membrane was 3,909 +/” 352 (+/”SE) in four TBs (29 alpha-cells) at 5% CO2 and 3,667 +/” 448 (+/”SE) in the paired halves of the same bladders without CO2 (25 alpha-cells). Corresponding densities of SPUs counted on apical membranes of the same bladders (n = 4) were 3,941 +/” 545 in 5% CO2 and 3,599 +/” 511 without CO2. The similarity of the densities of studs and SPUs under both conditions indicates that each SPU within the membrane is matched by one stud projecting into the cytoplasm. The one-for-one relationship between studs and SPUs was preserved over a wide range of transport rates. Addition of CO2 caused only inconsistent increments in the densities of studs and SPUs despite substantial increases in H+ transport rate. Slight variations in spacing of studs were consistent with patterns of distribution of SPUs on fracture surfaces.
Osmolarity in renal medulla of transgenic mice regulates transcription via 5'-flanking region of canine BGT1 gene
Authors: Kaneko T. , Takenaka M. , Okabe M. , Yoshimura Y. , Yamauchi A. , Horio M. , Kwon H. M. , Handler J. S. , Imai E.
Published: December 2017

Betaine is a major compatible osmolyte accumulated in the mammalian kidney medulla and in Madin-Darby canine kidney cells in response to hypertonicity. The accumulation is the result of an increase in maximal velocity of the Na(+)- and Cl-coupled betaine transporter designated BGT1. We have previously cloned the canine BGT1 gene and identified a tonicity-responsive enhancer element (TonE) in its 5'-flanking region. Here we report studies of transgenic mice that have in their genome 2.4 kb of the 5'-flanking region of the canine BGT1 gene in front of a chloramphenicol acetyl-transferase (CAT) reporter. Expression of CAT mRNA was detected only in the renal medulla and was increased by experimental manipulations that increase the tonicity of the renal medulla and decreased by manipulations that decrease medullary tonicity. We conclude that the 2.4-kb 5'-flanking region of the BGT1 gene mediates an increase in transcription in response to hyperosmolarity in the renal medulla.
Localization and induction by dehydration of ClC-K chloride channels in the rat kidney
Authors: Vandewalle A. , Cluzeaud F. , Bens M. , Kieferle S. , Steinmeyer K. , Jentsch T. J.
Published: December 2017

We investigate the intrarenal expression of two recently cloned chloride channels, rClC-K1 and rClC-K2, by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction on single microdissected tubules from the rat kidney and by immunohistochemistry using a polyclonal antibody that recognizes both highly homologous channels. Both rClC-K1 and rClC-K2 mRNAs were detected in outer medullary late proximal tubules (S3), papillary ascending thin limbs (ATL), and outer medullary (MTAL) and cortical (CTAL) thick ascending limbs, distal tubules (DCT), and cortical, outer medullary, and inner medullary collecting ducts. Indirect immunofluorescence studies demonstrated that the rClC-K proteins were restricted to the basolateral membranes from ATL, DCT, and collecting ducts cells, whereas CTAL and MTAL exhibited a more diffuse basal staining. When rats were dehydrated, a condition which increased the expression of rClC-K1 in cortex and medulla, a weak cytoplasmic staining was found in late proximal tubule cells. Thus these results demonstrate that rat kidney ClC-K channels are predominantly located in the basolateral membranes from cells of the late segments of the renal tubule where most of chloride reabsorption takes place.
Potassium depletion and acid-base transporters in rat kidney: differential effect of hypophysectomy
Authors: Wang Z. , Baird N. , Shumaker H. , Soleimani M.
Published: December 2017

Potassium depletion is involved in the pathophysiology of metabolic alkalosis. In the present study, the expression of renal acid-base transporters that are involved in HCO3- reabsorption was studied in potassium depletion. Rats fed potassium-deficient (KD) diet developed significant hypokalemia at 14 days (serum K+ 1.9 +/- 0.2 in KD vs. 4.2 +/- 0.2 meq/l in control, P < 0.01) but not at 6 days (3.8 +/- 0.3 in KD vs. 4.1 +/- 0.3 meq/l in control, P > 0.05). Kidney mRNA for colonic H(+)-K(+)-adenosinetriphosphatase (H(+)-K(+)-ATPase, cHKA) increased by approximately 3- and 11-fold at 6 and 14 days of KD diet, respectively, indicating that increased expression preceded the onset of hypokalemia. The expression of Na+/H+ exchanger 3 (NHE-3) mRNA and its cognate protein remained unchanged at 6 and 14 days of KD diet. The mRNA levels for NHE-1, NHE-2, and NHE-4 also remained unchanged at 6 and 14 days of KD diet. Hypophysectomized (HPX) rats fed KD diet for 14 days developed similar hypokalemia. However, the expression of cHKA mRNA in the kidney was decreased by approximately 80% in potassium-depleted (HPX+KD) rats (P < 0.01 vs. KD only). Hypophysectomy did not affect the mRNA levels for either gastric H(+)-K(+)-ATPase (gHKA) or NHE isoforms in KD animals. Thus potassium depletion increases expression of cHKA in the kidney but not that of gHKA or NHE isoforms. The signal for this increase appears to precede hypokalemia. Furthermore, the data suggest that pituitary hormone(s) plays an important and novel role in the regulation of cHKA.