Changes in activation of thrombin receptor in renal tissues of senile rats / 解放军医学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To determine the changes in expressions of thrombin receptor and fibrin deposit in glomeruli during the process of senility. Method Rats were divided into 3 groups (8 rats in each group) 3-month-old group (3m), 12-month-old group (12m) and 24-month-old group (24m). Fibrin deposition was detected by Martius-Scarlet-Blue staining and direct immunofluorecence method. Immunohistochemical studies were performed to detect the expression of thrombin receptor (PAR-1) and transforming growth factor-? (TGF-?). Semi-quantitative PCR was performed to detect the changes in PAR-1 mRNA expression. A quantitative analysis of the expressions was performed by image analysis system. Result Significant pathological changes were found in glomeruli during the process of senility. Fibrin deposition was not observed in glomeruli in different groups. Significant expression of PAR-1 was found in glomerular endothelial cells, mesangial cells and epithelial cells in 3m rats. On the contrary, in 24m rats, PAR-1 expression in glomeruli was significantly decreased. Expression of TGF-? was increased with senility in glomeruli. PAR-1 gene expression, barely detectable in control tissue, was strikingly increased in 24m rats. Conclusion Thrombin receptor activation could be found in glomeruli of senile rat, and it is independent of fibrin deposition. Activation of PAR-1 may play an important role in the process of renal senility.