Estimating nephron number in the developing kidney using the physical disector/fractionator combination.
Design-based stereology is considered the gold-standard method for estimating the total number of glomeruli, and thereby nephrons, in the adult kidney. However, until recently, a design-based method for estimating nephron number in the developing kidney was not available. For such a method to provide accurate and precise estimates, unambiguous identification of developing nephrons is essential. Here, we describe a combined histochemical/stereological technique for estimating total nephron number in the developing mouse and rat kidney. The method can be modified for use in other species.
Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
Luise A
LA
Cullen-McEwen
James A
JA
Armitage
Jens R
JR
Nyengaard
John F
JF
Bertram
D000818:Animals; D002452:Cell Count / Q000379:methods*; D006651:Histocytochemistry / Q000379:methods; D016591:Histocytological Preparation Techniques / Q000379:methods*; D007668:Kidney / Q000166:cytology* / Q000254:growth & development* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D007678:Kidney Glomerulus / Q000166:cytology* / Q000254:growth & development / Q000648:ultrastructure; D051379:Mice; D008853:Microscopy / Q000379:methods; D009399:Nephrons / Q000166:cytology*; D051381:Rats