In Vivo Model Development for Iga Nephropathy

Protheragen offers a comprehensive in vivo animal model development service for IgA Nephropathy (IgAN), designed to support preclinical research and therapeutic evaluation. Our platform provides a diverse portfolio of validated rodent models that closely replicate the pathophysiological mechanisms of human IgAN, enabling researchers to assess drug efficacy, elucidate disease pathways, and accelerate translational research.

IgA Nephropathy is the most common primary glomerulonephritis worldwide, characterized by the deposition of IgA-containing immune complexes in the glomeruli, leading to progressive renal injury. Robust animal models are essential for understanding IgAN pathogenesis and for the preclinical assessment of novel therapeutic interventions. At Protheragen, we utilize both mouse (Mus musculus) and rat (Rattus norvegicus) models, including specific strains such as NCr nude mice, Sprague Dawley rats, and Wistar rats. Our models encompass genetic, antibody-induced, and chemically/biologically induced approaches, each tailored to mimic key features of human disease, such as aberrant IgA1 production, immune complex deposition, and glomerular inflammation. These models are instrumental for bridging the gap between basic research and clinical application.

Genetically Engineered Models

Genetically engineered mouse models include transgenic lines expressing human genes implicated in IgAN pathogenesis, such as FCAR (human IgA receptor), IGHA1 (human IgA1 heavy chain), and MASP2 (mannan-binding lectin-associated serine protease 2). These models are generated via targeted gene insertion and allow for the study of human-like IgA1 synthesis, immune complex formation, and complement activation. Advantages include high disease relevance, stable phenotype expression, and suitability for mechanistic studies and therapeutic screening. Primary applications include investigating the molecular basis of IgAN, evaluating the efficacy of targeted therapies, and studying immune-mediated renal injury.

Antibody-Induced Models

Antibody-induced models involve the administration of specific antibodies, such as anti-Thy1.1, to rodents (primarily Sprague Dawley and Wistar rats) to trigger glomerular injury and simulate features of IgAN. In some protocols, unilateral nephrectomy is performed to enhance disease progression. These models reliably induce mesangial proliferation and proteinuria, closely resembling acute glomerular injury observed in patients. Key advantages include rapid disease induction, reproducibility, and suitability for short-term efficacy studies. They are widely used for evaluating anti-inflammatory and renoprotective compounds, as well as for studying acute glomerular responses.

Chemically and Biologically Induced Models

Chemically and biologically induced models utilize agents such as bovine serum albumin (BSA), lipopolysaccharide (LPS), staphylococcal enterotoxin B, or perchloromethane to provoke immune complex formation and glomerular deposition. These models, established in Sprague Dawley rats, mimic the multi-hit pathogenesis of human IgAN by promoting aberrant immune responses and renal inflammation. Advantages include flexibility in protocol design, ability to model various disease severities, and applicability to both acute and chronic studies. These models are ideal for screening anti-inflammatory agents, studying immune modulation, and evaluating the impact of environmental or dietary factors on IgAN progression.

Protheragen delivers an end-to-end solution for IgA Nephropathy animal model development, from model selection and customization to comprehensive in vivo efficacy studies. Our service includes experimental design, animal handling, induction protocols, and dosing regimens tailored to client needs. Key efficacy endpoints measured include proteinuria, hematuria, serum creatinine and BUN levels, renal histopathology (glomerular hypercellularity, mesangial expansion), immunofluorescent detection of IgA/IgG/C3 deposition, and inflammatory cytokine profiling. Our analytical capabilities encompass ELISA, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and advanced imaging. Rigorous quality control measures, including standardized operating procedures, regular health monitoring, and data validation, ensure the reliability and reproducibility of all study results.

Partnering with Protheragen ensures access to scientifically validated IgA Nephropathy models, expert technical support, and a commitment to high-quality, reproducible research outcomes. Our tailored approach accelerates your preclinical pipeline, providing actionable data for therapeutic development and mechanistic discovery. Contact us today to discuss your IgAN research needs and discover how our in vivo model services can drive your project forward.