Scanning electron microscopic study on the angioarchitecture of glomeruli in experimental toxemia of pregnancy in the rabbit.

Experimental toxemia of pregnancy in late gestation in rabbits was induced by constricting the aorta below the renal arteries on day 21 of gestation. Light and transmission electron microscopic examination of glomeruli on day 29 revealed only a slight swelling of endothelial cells. The angioarchitecture was also investigated using scanning electron microscopic examination of methyl methacry corrosion casts of the glomeruli. The kidney in experimental toxemia was characterized by a reduction of glomerular vessel diameter compared to that of normal pregnant rabbits. This probably resulted from enlargement of the endothelial cells, suggesting a reduced blood supply to the glomerulus. These findings suggest that interference with the blood supply to the pregnant uterus is an important factor in the development of the renal lesion of experimental toxemia of pregnancy in the rabbit.