SPONTANEOUS AMYLOIDOSIS IN LLC MICE - RENAL EFFECTS

  • 1 January 1978
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 90  (2) , 381-397
Abstract
Practically all low leukocyte count (LLC) mice over 1 yr of age develop renal amyloidosis. Renal amyloid is deposited in the glomeruli and in the interstitium between the convoluted and collecting tubules, with consequent development of cysts and necrosis. LLC mice die of chronic renal failure. EM studies reveal amyloid fibrils in the mesangium, a thickening of basement membranes and fusion of foot processes in the glomeruli. Massive amounts of amyloid fibrils are present in the interstitium, where intracellular fibrils in the fibroblasts and in the tubular epithelium cells are found. Vesicles, which are probably formed from membrane disruption, and amorphous materials are seen along the basement membranes. LLC mouse amyloidosis is discussed with regard to its potential as a model for studies on amyloidosis as well as the etiology and origin of amyloid fibrils.