Three-dimensional reconstruction of human juxtaglomerular apparatus (JGA)

A three-dimensional and morphological study of the human JGA was undertaken to establish a background for understanding the changes in this vital apparatus during various physiological and pathological conditions. Three-dimensional reconstruction was carried out using a computer program "GLOM". Serial sections of normal human kidneys were used after staining with specific human renin antiserum. Three-dimensional reconstruction revealed renin-positive cells in the afferent and efferent arterioles and interlobular arteries away from the JGA area. A close contact was demonstrated between renin-positive cells and the macula densa. The frequency of positively stained JGAs was significantly higher in the superficial glomeruli compared to the deep glomeruli. The high renin content of the superficial glomeruli suggests higher generation of angiotensin, which may contribute to the regulation of the GFR as proposed by other workers. This preliminary study on normal human JGA is to be extended to hypertensive and renal failure patients.