[The role of cellular immunity in the pathogenesis of glomerulonephritis]

In this article, experimental data and clinical observations suggesting the role of cell-mediated immunity in pathogenesis of primary glomerulonephritis have been presented. Serum anti-GBM antibodies have been observed in glomerulopathies mediated by anti-glomerular basement membrane antibodies with the presence of immunoglobulins in glomeruli and in their eluates. The lymphocytes from patients with glomerular disease show cell-mediated immune reactivity against GBM antigens. Cell-mediated immune mechanisms with involvement of mononuclear cells and polymorphonuclear leukocytes may participate in the pathogenesis of various forms of glomerulonephritis and contribute to prompt deterioration of renal function.