Figure 7. HIF-1α inhibition exacerbates proximal tubule cell proliferation and unbalances proliferation vs apoptosis.

(a) Cell proliferation in I/R rats was estimated by BRdU injection. BRdU incorporation in renal cells was estimated by immunohistochemistry for BRdU in paraffin-embedded renal tissue and later quantification. As observed, proliferation of proximal tubule cells was enhanced in HIF-1α interfered rats (n = 5 in each experimental group). Asterisks indicate statistical significance (*P < 0.05, +/− s.d.). Images magnification: 400X (b) Cell apoptosis was estimated by TUNEL staining in paraffin-embedded renal tissue. As observed, there is not difference in apoptotic cell number between both experimental groups. Images magnification: 200X. Experimental chirurgic model and embedded paraffin tissue blocks and storage were performed during 2011. Tissue sections for BrdU detection as well as IHC were performed during 2011–2012. Tissue sections for TUNEL and the assay were performed during 2012.