HEAT-SHOCK PROTEIN-72 73 IN NORMAL AND DISEASED KIDNEYS/

The induction of heat shock (stress) proteins (HSP) is a response by c ells due to a variety of physical, chemical, and infectious agents. Th ey have a significant role as cytoprotectants, in the regulation of ce llular functions, and in the recovery after sublethal injury. Using an tibody to mammalian HSP 72/73, we have performed an immunohistological study of human renal tissue in normal and diseased states, including idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, proliferative and crescentic glomerulon ephritis, and interstitial nephritis. A significant increase of HSP ex pression was noted in certain segments of the tubule in acute intersti tial nephritis and in glomerulonephritis accompanied by active interst itial inflammation. A possible role by the inflammatory mediators in t he induction of HSP in those cases is suggested.