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Techniques to study nephron function: microscopy and imaging

  • Molecular and Genomic Physiology
  • Published:
Pflügers Archiv - European Journal of Physiology Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Recent advances in optics, computer sciences, fluorophores, and molecular techniques allow investigators the opportunity to study dynamic events within the functioning kidney with subcellular resolution. Investigators can now use two-photon microscopy to follow several complex heterogenous processes in organs such as the kidney with high spacial and temporal resolution. Repeat determinations over time within the same animal are possible and minimize animal use and interanimal variability. Furthermore, the ability to obtain volumetric data (3D) makes quantitative 4D (time) analysis possible. Finally, use of multiple fluorophores concurrently allows for three different or interactive processes to be observed simultaneously. Therefore, this approach compliments existing molecular, biochemical, and pharmacologic techniques by advancing in vivo data analysis and interpretation to subcellular levels for molecules without the requirement for fixation. Its use in the kidney is in its infancy but offers much promise for unraveling the complex interdependent physiologic and pathophysiologic processes known to contribute to cell function and disease.

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Acknowledgments

This work was made possible by National Institutes of Health Grants P30 DK-79312, PO1 DK-53465, RO1 DK-069408 and a Veterans Affairs Merit Review (to B. A. Molitoris) and an Indiana Genomics Initiative (INGEN) grant from the Lilly Foundation to Indiana University School of Medicine.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, 950 W. Walnut St., R2-202C, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA

    Bruce A. Molitoris & Ruben M. Sandoval

  2. Indiana Center for Biological Microscopy, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, 950 W. Walnut St., R2-202C, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA

    Bruce A. Molitoris & Ruben M. Sandoval

  3. Roudebush Veterans Administration Medical Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA

    Bruce A. Molitoris & Ruben M. Sandoval

Authors
  1. Bruce A. Molitoris
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  2. Ruben M. Sandoval
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Correspondence to Bruce A. Molitoris.

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Molitoris, B.A., Sandoval, R.M. Techniques to study nephron function: microscopy and imaging. Pflugers Arch - Eur J Physiol 458, 203–209 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00424-008-0629-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00424-008-0629-8

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