Isolated perfused Ambystoma proximal tubule: hydrodynamics modulates ultrastructure

A method using a pressure-sensing servo-pipette is described for measuring downstream transepithelial pressure within isolated renal tubules perfused at flow rates designed to keep luminal solution composition constant. The hydrodynamics of in vitro microperfusion of isolated proximal tubules of Ambystoma tigrinum was varied and different states of transepithelial hydrostatic pressure difference, axial tubule flow, and transepithelial transport were correlated with epithelial ultrastructure. Tubules analyzed by ultrastructural morphometry were as follows: unperfused with and without ouabain, perfused single-end cannulated with and without ouabain, and perfused double-end cannulated tubules incubated in substrate Ringer. The results indicate that proximal tubule fine structure is well preserved for more than 3 h in unperfused and perfused tubules. Small transepithelial hydrostatic pressure gradients (less than 162 Pa) increase tubule diameters and decrease cell height without changing volumes of the cells, lateral intercellular spaces (LIS), or the basal extracellular labyrinth (BEL). Pressure gradients of 271 Pa have no further effect on tubule diameters or cell height, but significantly reduce volumes of LIS and BEL. Transport inhibition and axial flow changes have minor structural effects. This study demonstrates a close dependence of tubule ultrastructure on hydrodynamic conditions and provides guidelines for optimizing the latter during perfusion of isolated renal tubules.