Expression of collagen type IV in human kidney during prenatal development

Background/Aim. Type IV collagen belongs to the group of nonfibrillar collagens and is an important component basement membranes, where it accounts for approximately 50% its structural elements. The aim study was describe expression distribution type in embryonic fetal metanephric kidney determine volume density tissue each trimester development. Methods. material consisted 19 human embryos/fetuses, gestational age from 8th 37th week. Kidney specimens were routinely processed paraffin molds, stained immunohistochemically using polyclonal anti-collagen antibody counterstained with Mayer hematoxylin eosin. Stained slides examined a light microscope, images selected areas under different lens magnification captured digital camera. Volume determined ImageJ 1.48v plugin software, which inserted grid system 336 points. For data comparison, One-Way Analysis Variance (ANOVA) used. Results. Strong immunopositivity seen all specimens, membranes urinary bud, parietal leaf Bowman?s capsule, glomerular membrane, membrane interstitial blood vessels, nephron tubules collecting ducts. No statistically significant difference found among trimesters Conclusion. synthesis secretion simultaneously follow development structures, vessels. remains constant throughout development, indicating that plays crucial role normal as well maintaining function.