Strain differences in angiotensin-converting enzyme and angiotensin II type I receptor expression. Possible implications for experimental chronic renal transplant failure

BACKGROUND: The Fisher to Lewis (F-L) model of renal transplantation (Rtx) is widely used. Rtx from F to L without immunosuppressive treatment results in 50% survival, whereas L to F results in survival rates similar to syngrafts. When treated with an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor or antihypertensive triple therapy, renal damage is markedly reduced in F-L allografts. Despite similar reductions in blood pressure, the ACE inhibitor (ACE-I) is more effective than antihypertensive triple therapy, suggesting that the inhibition of intrarenal ACE plays an additional role in the attenuation of renal damage. METHODS: In the present study, we investigated strain-related differences in intrarenal ACE activity between F and L rats and whether treatment with ACE-I in F-L allografted rats results in reduction of intrarenal ACE. Intrarenal ACE was measured by activity assays, immunohistochemistry and PCR. RESULTS: In control kidneys from healthy F rats (n=8), we found a four-fold higher ACE activity than in native L rats (n=8, p<0.01). This was confirmed by a three-fold difference in ACE mRNA expression (n=5 for both, p<0.01). Using immunohistochemistry, we found strong tubular ACE expression in the F rat, whereas the L rat had no tubular ACE at all. In F-L allografts (n=9) we noted significant glomerulosclerosis and proteinuria after 34 weeks. Treatment with ACE-I in F-L (n=8) prevented the development of these changes. Although ACE mRNA and ACE protein expression were similar in treated and untreated allografts, intrarenal ACE activity was reduced by 50% in allografts with ACE-I. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, intrarenal levels of ACE may play a role in the development of renal damage in experimental chronic renal transplant failure.