Distribution of glutathione S-transferase isoenzymes in human kidney: basis for possible markers of renal injury.

To determine whether the tissue distribution of glutathione S-transferase (GST) isoenzymes could define the precise nature of renal injury, 13 adult kidneys were studied, using specific antibodies raised against purified isoenzymes. Basic GST stained strongly proximal convoluted tubules and some medullary tubules; acidic GST stained strongly distal convoluted tubules and medullary tubules; neutral GST stained similarly to acidic GST, but weaker, and microsomal GST stained glomerular and interstitial endothelium and collecting ducts deep in the medulla, although there was considerable variation in staining intensity among cases. It is suggested that the measurement of these isoenzymes in serum and urine may help to elucidate the localisation of tissue damage, which may be particularly valuable in patients with cyclosporine toxicity following renal transplantation.