Measurement of Single Nephron Filtration Rate in the Kidney of the River Lamprey, Lampetra Fluviatilis L

Abstract

The reliability of [3H]inulin as a reference substance for the measurement of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in river lampreys was investigated. Simultaneously measured renal clearances of [3H]inulin and [14C]-polyethylene glycol (PEG) were not significantly different. Recoveries of [3H]inulin in the urine following its injection into the proximal tubule and urinary duct averaged 83.5±4.0% (n = 14) and 93.0±4.6% (n = 9) respectively. No evidence was obtained to suggest penetration of the tubular wall by [3H]inulin following its introduction into peritubular capillaries. Gel-filtration of lamprey plasma and urine produced no signs of any significant degradation of the inulin to fructose. [3H]inulin recoveries, though significantly below 100% (P < 0.001), were considered adequate to justify its use after allowing for possible sources of error. A mean single nephron filtration rate (SNGFR) value of 7.02±0.27 nl/min (n = 89) was obtained from the kidneys of anaesthetized freshwater lampreys. [51Cr]EDTA was found to be totally unsuitable for the measurement of GFR in this species.