Kidney stereology

Abstract

Kidneys are the retroperitoneal organs that are considered an important organ to regulate homeostasis in our body. Nephrons (uriniferous tubules) are functional units and fundamental structures of the kidney. The total nephron counts are clinically important, as reported by various researches. Preterm birth with low birth weight is associated with reduced nephron number, which results in hypertension and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Analyses based on the stereology of the kidney are considered one of the accurate techniques for counting uriniferous tubules. Many researchers still find it difficulties to use stereological methods of counting due to a lack of understanding of statistics and their fear of numbers. The great advantage of modern stereological techniques is to make stereology easier to use. This is due to the innovation of special microscopy techniques such as electron microscopy, confocal laser scanning microscope, or light microscope, which are equipped with video cameras and computers. Such devices would allow researchers using stereological techniques for kidney morphology.