Advances in the biology and genetics of the podocytopathies: implications for diagnosis and therapy.

ABSTRACT:

Context

Etiologic factors and pathways leading to altered podocyte phenotype are clearly numerous and involve the activity of different cellular function.

Objective

To focus on recent discoveries in podocyte biology and genetics and their relevance to these human glomerular diseases, named podocytopathies.

Data sources

Genetic mutations in genes encoding for proteins in the nucleus, slit diaphragm, podocyte cytoplasm, and cell membrane are responsible for podocyte phenotype and functional abnormalities. Podocyte injury may also derive from secondary stimuli, such as mechanical stress, infections, or use of certain medications. Podocytes can respond to injury in a limited number of ways, which include (1) effacement, (2) apoptosis, (3) arrest of development, and (4) de

SUBMITTER: Barisoni L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3118840 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature