Experimental Adenovirus Immune Complex Glomerulonephritis

摘要

A group of 40 mice were given daily intravenous inoculations of canine adenovirus-antibody complexes solubilized in antigen excess. Immunofluorescence tests showed deposits of these complexes in the glomeruli. Antigen, antibody and complement (C3) were detected as streaks of fluorescence in mesangial areas; capillary loops were not stained. Although only 7 out of 40 (17%) inoculated mice developed proliferative glomerulonephritis, ultrastructural changes were found in the glomeruli of all animals from the third day onwards. In addition to proliferation of mesangial cells, deposits of electron dense material were detected in mesangial matrix and, less commonly, in subendothelial locations at the axial regions of the loops. Endothelial swelling and occasional necrosis, fusion of epithelial foot processes and extension of mesangial pseudopodia into the capillary loops were also detected.