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Use of LysoTracker to Detect Programmed Cell Death in Embryos and Differentiating Embryonic Stem Cells
Published on: October 11, 2012
Ultrastructural observations of programmed cell death during metanephric development in mouse
Xiaoming Li1, Min Guo, Youzhi Shao
1Department of Histology and Embryology, College of Basic Medicine, Liaoning Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China. xiaomingli0@yahoo.com.cn
Microscopy Research and Technique
|March 29, 2013
Summary
This study reveals that both apoptosis and necroptosis (programmed cell death) occur during mouse kidney development. Necroptosis, a non-apoptotic cell death, was observed alongside apoptosis in developing nephrons.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Cell Biology
- Renal Physiology
Background:
- Apoptosis was historically considered the sole programmed cell death (PCD) during renal morphogenesis.
- Evidence for non-apoptotic PCD during kidney development was limited.
- Necroptosis, an alternative form of PCD, has been identified in various biological contexts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the involvement of non-apoptotic PCD during metanephros development.
- To characterize the ultrastructural features of apoptotic and non-apoptotic PCD in the developing kidney.
- To determine the roles of different PCD types in renal morphogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Light microscopy was employed to observe cellular structures.
- Transmission electron microscopy was utilized for ultrastructural analysis of PCD.
- Comparative analysis of apoptosis and necroptosis during metanephric development was performed.
Main Results:
- Necroptosis was identified during mouse metanephros development via electron microscopy.
- Both apoptosis and necroptosis were found to constitute PCD during embryonic kidney development.
- Apoptosis was more prevalent than necroptosis across most metanephric compartments, except the proximal tubule.
- Necroptosis was specifically observed in developing nephrons, excluding the proximal tubule.
- Three clearance mechanisms for PCD cells were identified: efferocytosis, blood flow, and urine flux.
Conclusions:
- Apoptosis and necroptosis are crucial for normal nephrogenesis.
- The interplay between apoptosis and necroptosis influences kidney morphogenesis.
- Efficient clearance of dead cells via efferocytosis, blood flow, and urine flux is vital for developing kidneys.
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