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Estimation of Nephron Number in Whole Kidney using the Acid Maceration Method
Published on: May 22, 2019
Glomerular number and size variability and risk for kidney disease
Victor G Puelles1, Wendy E Hoy, Michael D Hughson
1Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
Current Opinion in Nephrology and Hypertension
|November 25, 2010
Summary
Human kidney anatomy shows significant variation in nephron number and glomerular size. These variations are linked to kidney disease risk factors and are influenced by genetic and environmental elements during development.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Renal Microanatomy
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- The quantitative microanatomy of the human kidney exhibits substantial variability.
- Nephron number and glomerular size are key determinants of renal function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current understandings of variability in glomerular number and size.
- To explore the implications of this variability for renal health.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing human population data.
- Analysis of genetic and environmental factors influencing nephrogenesis.
- Examination of glomerular volume heterogeneity.
Main Results:
- Total nephron number varies at least 13-fold in humans.
- Glomerular volume shows wide variation within and between kidneys.
- Increased glomerular volume heterogeneity correlates with kidney disease risk factors.
Conclusions:
- Human kidney microanatomy is highly variable, impacting renal health.
- Genetic and fetal environmental factors regulate nephron endowment.
- Molecular regulation of glomerular size requires further investigation.
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