The giraffe kidney tolerates high arterial blood pressure by high renal interstitial pressure and low glomerular filtration rate

Abstract

In giraffes, GFR, ERPF and RI appear much lower than expected based on body mass. A strong renal capsule supports a RIHP, which is >10-fold that of other mammals effectively reducing the net filtration pressure and protecting against the high MAP.

Biomimetics – Nature's roadmap to insights and solutions for burden of lifestyle diseases

“…Their heart valves have evolved to adapt to an extreme‐pressure system with compact collagen construction . A strong renal capsule supporting high renal interstitial hydrostatic pressure reduces the net filtration pressure and may protect giraffe kidneys against high blood pressure . The protective mechanisms in giraffes provide a conjectural framework for experimental explorations into mechanisms as well as treatment and prevention of hypertension, cardiovascular and renal disease in humans.…”

Arterial hypertension

“…The investigation of giraffes is not typical; however very interesting, since due to the exceptional geometry of the animal we find unique pressure conditions and alterations, for example for the brain, when the giraffe drinks water. The mean arterial blood pressure is twice that of other mammals . The authors analysed possible evolutionary adaption in kidney physiology in response to this high value of mean arterial pressure as compared with other mammals.…”

“…The mean arterial blood pressure is twice that of other mammals. 15 The authors analysed possible evolutionary adaption in kidney physiology in response to this high value of mean arterial pressure as compared with other mammals. They have found that in giraffes the glomerular filtration rate, effective renal plasma flow and renal artery resistive index are much lower than expected based on body mass of the giraffes.…”

The complement system in kidney diseases

“…Renal physiology and the pathophysiology of renal disease is a common topic in Acta Physiologica: Given the sharp increase in morbidity and mortality from kidney failure in many Western economies during the last century, understanding the mechanisms of normal kidney function, renal pathophysiology and the development of kidney failure and potential regenerative mechanisms is highly relevant.…”