Gene expression analysis in microdissected renal tissue - Current challenges and strategies

The architecture and compartmentalization of the kidney has
stimulated the development of an array of microtechniques to study
the functional differences between the distinct nephron segments.
With the vast amounts of genomic sequence data now available, the
groundwork has been laid for a comprehensive characterization of
the molecular pathways defining the differences in nephron
function. With the development of sensitive gene expression
techniques the tools for a comprehensive molecular analysis of
specific renal microenvironments have been provided: Quantitative
RT-PCR technologies now allow the analysis of specific mRNAs from
as little as single microdissected renal cells. A more global view
of gene expression regulation is a logical development from the
application of large scale profiling techniques. In this review, we
will discuss the power and pitfalls of these approaches, including
their potential for the functional characterization of nephron
heterogeneity and diagnostic application in renal disease.
Copyright (C) 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel.