Analysis of cell turnover in the macula densa through the normal aging process
Marta Ortega-Martínez1, Yareth Gopar-Cuevas1, Karol García-Aguilar1
1Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Nuevo León, Monterrey, Nuevo León 64460, Mexico.
Biomedical Reports
|August 1, 2025
Summary
Kidney aging involves dynamic cell turnover in the macula densa (MD), where cell proliferation and apoptosis inversely change. However, total cell numbers remain stable, suggesting other factors in age-related kidney dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Gerontology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Kidney function declines with age, increasing disease susceptibility in the elderly.
- The macula densa (MD) plays a crucial role in regulating kidney function, and its function deteriorates with aging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between cell proliferation and apoptosis in the mouse macula densa (MD) during normal aging.
- To understand the cellular mechanisms underlying age-related changes in kidney function.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of kidney specimens from mice aged 2 to 24 months.
- Immunostaining for cell proliferation markers.
- TUNEL assay for apoptosis evaluation.
- Hematoxylin and eosin staining for total cell counting.
Main Results:
- A dynamic cell turnover pattern was observed in the MD throughout aging.
- Increased cell proliferation correlated with decreased apoptosis, and vice versa.
- No significant differences in total MD cell number were found across different age groups.
Conclusions:
- Cell turnover in the macula densa is dynamic during aging but does not alter total cell number.
- Mechanisms beyond cell proliferation and apoptosis likely contribute to age-related decline in MD-regulated kidney function.
- Further research is needed to identify these mechanisms for potential therapeutic targets against age-related kidney diseases.
