Podocytes: recent biomolecular developments

Abstract

Podocytes are postmitotic renal glomerular cells with multiple ramifications that extend from the cell body. Processes departing from a podocyte interdigitate with corresponding projections from neighboring cells and form an intricate web that enwraps the glomerular capillary completely. Podocyte processes are interconnected by the slit diaphragm, an adhesion junction mostly formed by Ig-like molecules, cadherins/protocadherins, ephrin/eph, and neurexin molecules organized in an assembly that resembles synaptic junctions. Podocyte failure is primarily or secondarily implicated in all forms of proteinuric glomerular diseases, as confirmed by the morphological changes of their elaborate cell architecture detectable by electron microscopy. Importantly, mutations of podocyte proteins are responsible for the most severe forms of congenital nephrotic syndrome. In the last 15 years, progressive technological advances have aided the study of podocyte biology and pathology, confirming the relevance of podocyte molecules and signaling pathways for the function of the glomerular filter. This review will examine the most important and newest discoveries in the field, which is rapidly evolving, hopefully leading to a detailed knowledge of this fascinating cell and to the development of specific therapeutic options for proteinuric diseases.

MicroRNA‑145‑5p attenuates high glucose‑induced apoptosis by targeting the Notch signaling pathway in podocytes

“…Podocytes serve an important role in DN. A multitude of factors, including oxidative stress and inflammatory response in diabetes cause abnormalities in podocytes that limit their ability to self-repair and regenerate (4,5). Furthermore, diabetes may cause podocyte foot process detachment, hypertrophy and loss (4,5).…”

“…A multitude of factors, including oxidative stress and inflammatory response in diabetes cause abnormalities in podocytes that limit their ability to self-repair and regenerate (4,5). Furthermore, diabetes may cause podocyte foot process detachment, hypertrophy and loss (4,5). Therefore, podocyte injury is widely considered as a key factor in determining the prognosis of DN (4,5).…”

“…Furthermore, diabetes may cause podocyte foot process detachment, hypertrophy and loss (4,5). Therefore, podocyte injury is widely considered as a key factor in determining the prognosis of DN (4,5).…”

Nanomedicines for renal disease: current status and future applications

“…A single nephron consists of two filtration units: the glomerulus and a hairpin-shaped tubule composed of a proximal tubule, the loop of Henle, a distal tubule, and collecting duct 179 . The glomerulus comprises glomerular endothelial cells (GECs) 180 , a glomerular basement membrane (GBM) 181 , podocytes 182 , mesangial cells 183 , and parietal epithelial cells 184 (FIG. 2).…”

Activation of TLR5 induces podocyte apoptosis

“…2 Some proteins, such as nephrin and CD2AP, are required for the foot projections to wrap around the capillaries and function. 3 The cell bodies of podocytes, their pedicels and the required proteins (such as nephrin) are important components in the barrier of the Bowman's capsule. The deficiency of any of the components may result in malfunction of the kidney.…”