Histometric and fine-structural analysis of pig glomeruli after experimental protracted shock

Glomeruli of control and shock-treated, 6-8-week-old pigs (n = 16 specific pathogen-free) were analyzed by light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and morphometry. In eight of the animals the shock was induced using a neurotoxin of the E. coli serotype O 139: k82 (B). The animals were killed 47 to 264 hours post injection. In semithin sections a significant mesangial widening and increase of the mesangial nuclei count was demonstrated. The volume of the mesangium was 11.1% in the control animals and increased to 19.6% after protracted shock. By electron microscopy we ascertained a distinct activation of the mesangial cells concomitant with an increase of ribosomes, rough endoplasmatic reticulum, lysosomes and a fusion of the epithelial pedicles. The surrounding mesangial matrix was enlarged. In this paper the significance of this mesenchymal reaction in relation to shock situations is discussed.