An in vitro kidney mesangial cell model has been produced for the investigation of mechanisms by which glomerulosclerosis develops in non-diabetic kidney disease. Researchers have characterized the mesangial cells as high producers of extracellular matrix proteins by isolating glomerular mesangial cells from a mutant mouse model (Fvb Os/+ mice with ANAPC-10 gene mutation) of progressive, non-diabetic glomerulosclerosis and severe renal failure. The growth characteristics of the cell line have been characterized and some pathways were activated in these cells that likely contribute to the persistent, high matrix-producing phenotype. This cell line will be useful in examining the mechanisms by which excess matrix production leads to glomerulosclerosis and to test new drugs that may inhibit this scarring process.