Abstract

Serine proteases are proteolytic enzymes involved in the regulation of renal function and hemodynamics. Serum trypsin (the archetypal serine protease) levels are elevated in a number of pathophysiological conditions, notably pancreatitis, which is associated with acute renal failure.Here we use the kidney slice model to investigate the effect of trypsin on vasa recta diameter in situ. Kidney slices (200 μm thick) were obtained from adult male rats as previously described [1]. Kidney slices were superfused with trypsin and DIC video imaging techniques were used to record real‐time changes in vasa recta diameter.Application of trypsin (2 U/ml) caused a significant constriction of vasa recta capillaries, specifically at smooth muscle‐like pericyte cell sites (15.5±1.4% p<0.05).Here we demonstrate that acute application of trypsin (at levels similar to those detected in patients with severe acute pancreatitis) significantly decreases vasa recta diameter and thus renal medullary blood flow, specifically via its action at pericytes. Data presented here identifies a novel potential role for pericytes in the acute renal failure observed in patients with acute pancreatitis.Research supported by BBSRC, Wellcome Trust and the MRC

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