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Updated: Aug 9, 2026

Ischemia-reperfusion Model of Acute Kidney Injury and Post Injury Fibrosis in Mice
Published on: August 9, 2013
Role of infection in the genesis of acute renal failure
1Department of Internal Medicine, Ruperto Carola University, Heidelberg, Germany.
Abstract:
While most experimental models of acute renal failure (ARF) involve ischaemic or toxic damage to the kidney in non-infected animals, a surprisingly large proportion of patients with ARF exhibit signs of septicaemia or systemic reaction to local infections. This clinical observation suggests an important role of infection-related mediator mechanisms in the genesis of ARF. Another important aspect is the occurrence of ARF in the context of infections with nephrotropic viruses (e.g. hantavirus accounting for approximately 5% of non-surgical ARF in Germany) and nephrotropic bacteria (e.g. leptospirosis).
Insights
Infection significantly contributes to acute renal failure (ARF) in patients, highlighting the role of sepsis and specific microbial infections in kidney injury. Understanding these infection-related mechanisms is crucial for ARF management.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Most experimental acute renal failure (ARF) models focus on non-infectious causes like ischemia or toxins.
- Clinical data reveal a substantial number of ARF cases are associated with infections.
Observation:
- A significant proportion of patients with ARF present with sepsis or systemic responses to localized infections.
- Nephrotropic viruses (e.g., hantavirus) and bacteria (e.g., leptospirosis) are implicated in ARF development.
Findings:
- Infection-related mediators play a critical role in the development of ARF.
- Specific infections, such as hantavirus and leptospirosis, are notable causes of ARF.
Implications:
- Clinical observations necessitate a shift in ARF research towards understanding infection-related pathogenesis.
- Recognizing the link between infection and ARF can improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
- Further research into infection-induced ARF mechanisms is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
Urinary Tract Infection II: Pathophysiology
Acute Pyelonephritis I: Introduction
Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Acute Kidney Injury I: Introduction
Acute Kidney Injury II: Pathophysiology
Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention

