Diabetic Nephropathy in KK and KK-A^y Mice

Abstract

KK mice and KK-A^y mice were examined for age related changes in blood and urinary biophysiological parameters. Blood hemoglobin A_1c levels were significantly higher in KK-A^y and KK mice as compared to non-diabetic ddY mice. In both diabetic mice, especially KK-A^y mice, plasma insulin levels markedly increased at 2 to 4 months of age, and the urinary glucose and microalbumin levels and albumin-to-creatinine ratios increased dependent on age. Plasma thrombomodulin levels significantly increased at 2 to 4 months of age in both KK and KK-A^y mice. Mild enlargement of mesengial matrix and segmental proliferative glomerular nephritis were revealed in KK and KK-A^y mice, respectively, at 4 months of age. KK-A^y mice with insulin resistance and high urine mAlb level might be useful as models for the early stage of diabetic nephropathy.