Abstract
Summary: The transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) family of growth factors regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, extracellular matrix synthesis and angiogenesis in many developing tissues. Transforming growth factor‐β1 was recently shown to affect the branching of ureteric epithelium and nephron formation in cultured rat metanephroi. As the TGF‐β type II receptor is specific for the TGF‐β family, the present study used in situ hybridization to localize mRNA for this receptor in metanephroi from Sprague‐Dawley rat embryos. Transforming growth factor‐β type II receptor mRNA was located in ureteric duct epithelium, undifferentiated mesenchymal cells in the nephrogenic zone, vesicles, comma‐shaped bodies and S‐shaped bodies. In some S‐shaped bodies, TGF‐β type II receptor mRNA was not expressed in the lower limb, which subsequently forms the renal corpuscle. Expression was not observed in capillary loop stage glomeruli and maturing glomeruli, or in proximal tubules and interstitial cells. In adult rat kidney, TGF‐β type II receptor mRNA was expressed in cortical collecting ducts and distal tubules but not in glomeruli or proximal tubules. These findings demonstrate that the prominent expression of TGF‐β type II receptor mRNA decreases as glomeruli and tubules develop. Expression then remains undetectable in adult glomeruli and proximal tubules. the developmentally‐regulated expression of this receptor suggests a key role in glomerular and nephron development.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.