Renal Athrocytosis and Intracellular Digestion of Intraperitoneally Injected Hemoglobin in Rats

The athrocytosis of hemoglobin by the epithelium of the proximal convoluted tubules in the kidney of the rat was studied after its intraperitoneal injection, absorption into the blood stream, and glomerular filtration. The earliest appearance of the athrocytosed particles, their accumulation, intracellular breakdown, and disappearance were followed. In addition observations were made on the intraluminal disposition of hemoglobin "casts" with the Spalteholz clearing technique; on the structural changes in the kidney in consequence of the injections; and on the development of a transient oliguria during the course of the experiment. The significance of the findings is considered.