Ren1(d) and Ren2 cooperate to preserve homeostasis: evidence from mice expressing GFP in place of Ren1(d)

To distinguish the contributions of Ren1(d) and Ren2 to kidney development and blood pressure homeostasis, we placed green fluorescent protein (GFP) u nder control of the Ren1(d) renin locus by homologous recombination in mice . Homozygous Ren1(d)-GFP animals make GFP mRNA in place of Ren1(d) mRNA in the kidney and maintain Ren2 synthesis in the juxtaglomerular (JG) cells. G FP expression provides an accurate marker of Ren1(d) expression during deve lopment. Kidneys from homozygous animals are histologically normal, althoug h with fewer secretory granules in the JG cells. Blood pressure and circula ting renin are reduced in Ren1(d)-GFP homozygotes. Acute administration of losartan decreases blood pressure further, suggesting a role for Ren2 prote in in blood pressure homeostasis. These studies demonstrate that, in the ab sence of Ren1(d), Ren2 preserves normal kidney development and prevents sev ere hypotension. Chronic losartan treatment results in compensation via rec ruitment of both Ren1(d)- and Ren2-expressing cells along the preglomerular vessels. This response is achieved by metaplastic transformation of arteri olar smooth muscle cells, a major mechanism to control renin bioavailabilit y and blood pressure homeostasis.