Evolution of tubulointerstitial fibrosis in experimental renal infection and scarring

Abstract

Renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis may result from a loss of tubulointerstitial volume, which produces a disproportionate increase in the density of matrix. This study examines the relationship between fibrogenesis and collapse in scar formation after experimental renal infection. Escherichia coil were inoculated into the renal cortex of Sprague Dawley rats, with saline substituted in a control group. Glomerular, tubular, and interstitial profile areas were determined. Density of glomerular profiles was used as a measure of tubulointerstitial collapse. Collagen type I, III, and IV expression was examined by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. Myofibroblasts were identified by alph..