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Updated: Aug 15, 2026
Microdissection of Primary Renal Tissue Segments and Incorporation with Novel Scaffold-free Construct Technology
Published on: March 27, 2018
Three-dimensional visualization of renal cells by NaOH maceration
1Department of Anatomy, Niigata University School of Medicine, Japan.
Abstract:
The three-dimensional fine structure of cells composing the renal tissue was demonstrated by SEM after the removal of extracellular matrices by NaOH maceration. This paper focuses on glomerular mesangial cells, Goormaghtigh's cells (extraglomerular mesangial cells), and epithelial cells in the thin limbs of Henle's loop in the rat, rabbit and dog. Mesangial cells reveal rough surfaces covered with short microvilli. The cells extend long branching processes in close association with the glomerular capillary, suggesting a role for them of regulating the capillary caliber. The mesangial cells interdigitate with each other by their microvilli, forming an intercellular labyrinth. Goormaghtigh's cells at the glomerular hilus are also covered with microvilli, which form narrow labyrinthine spaces between the cells. The labyrinth among the mesangial cells and that among Goormaghtigh's cells connect with each other at the hilus, giving rise to a channel system leading from the periphery of the glomerulus through the hilus to the interstitial space outside the glomerulus. Renal tubule cells display complicated intra- and intercellular interdigitations on the basal aspect. The pattern of epithelial interdigitation is specific to each tubular segment. The descending and ascending thin limbs of the long loops demonstrate a striking contrast to each other. The former is characterized by moderate intercellular interdigitation and by numerous microvilli on the lateral and basal surfaces; the latter is marked by elaborate, pectineal interdigitations, and by smooth basolateral surfaces.
Insights
Scanning electron microscopy revealed the detailed 3D structures of rat, rabbit, and dog kidney cells. This study highlights the microvilli and interdigitations of mesangial and Henle
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Cell Biology
- Microscopy
Background:
- Understanding the intricate cellular architecture of the kidney is crucial for comprehending its function.
- Previous studies have provided limited insights into the three-dimensional fine structure of specific renal cell types.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the three-dimensional fine structure of glomerular mesangial cells, Goormaghtigh's cells, and Henle's loop epithelial cells.
- To investigate the surface morphology and intercellular relationships of these renal cells using scanning electron microscopy.
Main Methods:
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to visualize cellular structures.
- Extracellular matrices were removed using sodium hydroxide (NaOH) maceration to expose cell surfaces.
- Comparative analysis was performed on renal tissues from rats, rabbits, and dogs.
Main Results:
- Glomerular mesangial cells exhibit rough surfaces with microvilli and extend processes associated with glomerular capillaries.
- Goormaghtigh's cells possess microvilli, forming labyrinthine spaces that connect to a channel system leading to the interstitial space.
- Renal tubule cells display segment-specific basal interdigitations; thin descending limbs have moderate interdigitations and microvilli, while thin ascending limbs show elaborate interdigitations and smooth surfaces.
Conclusions:
- The study reveals distinct morphological features of mesangial, Goormaghtigh's, and Henle's loop cells, suggesting functional roles in capillary regulation and filtration.
- The observed intercellular labyrinth and channel systems may facilitate communication and transport within the renal glomerulus and beyond.
- SEM analysis provides valuable high-resolution insights into the complex 3D organization of renal cells, contributing to a deeper understanding of kidney structure-function relationships.
