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The Os/+ mouse: a genetic animal model of reduced renal mass
1Division of Basic Medical Sciences, Mercer University School of Medicine, Macon, Georgia 31207.
Abstract:
The ROP [Ra/+ (ragged), Os/+ (oligosyndactyly), and Pt/+ (pintail)] mouse possessing the gene for oligosyndactylism (Os) was evaluated as a potential genetic animal model of reduced renal mass. Young male ROP mice that were heterozygotes with respect to the Os gene (Os/+) and their normal homozygote litter mates (+/+) were used in the present study. Approximately 50% fewer nephrons were present in the Os/+ mice than in the +/+ mice. Hypertrophic changes were detected in the epithelial cells in proximal convoluted and proximal straight tubules as well as in cortical collecting ducts in the kidneys of the Os/+ mice. Glomerular hypertrophy was also noted in the kidneys of these mice. After unilateral nephrectomy, further hypertrophic changes occurred in both Os/+ and +/+ mice, but the magnitude of compensatory growth was greater in the +/+ mice. From a functional standpoint, the Os/+ mice appeared to be capable of maintaining normal fluid and electrolyte homeostasis, even after unilateral nephrectomy. The findings from the present study indicate that the ROP Os/+ mouse can be a useful animal model to study the effects of reduced renal mass.
Insights
The ROP Os/+ mouse, with 50% fewer nephrons, serves as a valuable genetic model for reduced renal mass. These mice maintain normal homeostasis despite kidney abnormalities.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Genetics
- Animal Models
Background:
- Reduced renal mass is a condition impacting kidney function.
- Genetic models are crucial for understanding kidney diseases.
- The ROP mouse line carries the oligosyndactyly (Os) gene.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the ROP Os/+ mouse as a genetic animal model for reduced renal mass.
- To investigate kidney structure and function in Os/+ mice compared to wild-type littermates.
- To assess the compensatory response to unilateral nephrectomy in Os/+ mice.
Main Methods:
- Comparison of nephron number between Os/+ and +/+ mice.
- Histological examination of kidney tissues for hypertrophic changes.
- Functional assessment of fluid and electrolyte homeostasis after unilateral nephrectomy.
Main Results:
- Os/+ mice exhibited approximately 50% fewer nephrons than +/+ mice.
- Hypertrophic changes were observed in proximal tubules and collecting ducts of Os/+ mice.
- While both genotypes showed hypertrophy post-nephrectomy, +/+ mice had a greater compensatory growth magnitude.
- Os/+ mice maintained normal fluid and electrolyte balance post-nephrectomy.
Conclusions:
- The ROP Os/+ mouse is a suitable genetic model for studying reduced renal mass.
- This model allows for the investigation of kidney adaptations and functional capacity in hyponephronic states.
- Further research using this model can elucidate mechanisms underlying renal mass reduction and compensatory processes.