Pathological Analysis of Renal Dysplasia Focusing on Intercellular Junction Expression in Calves

Abstract

In this study, we report on two cases of renal dysplasia in calves and analyze the pathological examination focusing on intercellular junctions. Findings in the two autopsies included discolored kidneys and rugged surface. Histopathologically, extensive and focal interstitial fibrosis was observed in case 1 and case 2, respectively. In order to observe the localization of the intercellular junctions, we analyzed the affected kidneys by immunohistochemistry using claudin-16, K-cadherin and integrin α6 antibodies for the tight junction, adhesive junction and hemidesmosome, respectively. Abnormal localizations of claudin-16 and K-cadherin were observed in both cases, which were not observed in control. These results suggested that the abnormal localization of intercellular junctions plays a role in the pathogenesis of renal dysplasia. Pathological studies focusing on the intercellular junctions would help to elucidate the renal dysplasia.