Focal mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis in the rat caused by Habu snake venom: the role of platelets.

Platelet aggregates are a prominent early feature in the glomerular lesions of focal mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis induced by Habu venom. After venom injection the peripheral blood platelet count falls rapidly, and in vitro the venom causes platelet aggregation and release of 5-HT. The role of platelets in this model has been studied in rats depleted of platelets by antiplatelet serum administration. No effect on the early (24 h) glomerular damage was found. Mesangial proliferation which appears 2--3 days after glomerular injury was significantly inhibited in platelet-depleted rats. These results show that platelet activity does not initiate the mesangial injury in this model, but suggest that platelets or their products act as a stimulus to mesangial proliferation.