Abstract
Objective : Tensin is a 215kDa, actin-related protein. It is reported that tensin is expressed in tubular epithelial cells in the mouse kidney. In this study, we investigated tensin expression and localization in human renal tissues.
Methods : Tensin expression and localization in renal tissues and renal cells were investigated using immunochemistry, RT-PCR and immunoprecipitation. The localization of tensin, integrin α5 and fibronectin was examined. The interaction between tensin and other actin-related proteins was also determined.
Results : Tensin was localized not only in tubular epithelial cells but also in mesangial cells and glomerular parietal epithelial cells. Tensin was colocalized with integrin α5 and fibronectin in the mesagnial area, but only with fibronectin in tubular epithelial cells and glomerular parietal epithelial cells. In the mesangial cells, tensin was expressed at the end of the actin stress fiber, and was involved in complexes with the stabilizing molecule vinculin and signaling molecule FAK.
Conclusions : In human renal tissues, tensin was expressed and localized not only in the tubular epithelial cells but also in the mesangial cells and glomerular parietal epithelial cells. Tensin may play functional roles in mesangial cells through adhesion complexes with integrin α5, vinculin and FAK.
