A Rapid Method for separating Glomeruli from Rabbit Kidney

Abstract

IN the course of investigations into the site at which renin is found in the kidney it became necessary quickly to separate glomeruli from other renal elements. Previous experiments on fat embolism had shown that in the kidney fat particles were restricted largely to glomeruli. It therefore seemed possible that if particles of the right size could be introduced into the renal circulation they would lodge in the glomeruli. This consideration, together with an early admiration for the experiment in which the function of the otocyst and otolith were demonstrated by inducing the crayfish (Palinurus) to use a particle of magnetic oxide of iron as an otolith, suggested that if the particles introduced into the renal circulation were magnetic it would be possible to separate the glomeruli with a magnet. This has been done. Since it can be done quickly and without much greater disturbance than is involved in mechanically disrupting the kidney, the method may be useful to others interested in locating enzymes in the kidney.