The structure and ultrastructure of the renal tubule of the urodele amphibian, Amphiuma means

Abstract

The renal corpuscle and segments of the renal tubule of the urodele amphibian Amphiuma means have been described and studied by light and electron microscopy as a background for investigations on the effects of hormones, drugs, toxins and carcinogens on cell structure and function in long-term organ cultures of kidney explants. Notable features of the A. means kidney include the number and variety of cytoplasmic inclusions in the cells of the proximal segment, the comparatively thick glomerular filter, and the presence of possible renin granules in the endothelial cells lining the afferent arteriole near its point of entry to the glomerular capsule.