Intraglomerular mesangial cell

Intraglomerular Mesangial Cell

File:Glomerulus.png

Illustration of a glomerulus, the part of the kidney where intraglomerular mesangial cells are located.

Intraglomerular mesangial cells are specialized cells located within the glomerulus of the kidney. They play a crucial role in the regulation of glomerular filtration and the maintenance of the extracellular matrix of the glomerulus.

Function

Intraglomerular mesangial cells have several important functions. They are responsible for the phagocytosis of macromolecules that are trapped in the basement membrane of the glomerulus. They also produce and secrete extracellular matrix proteins, such as collagen and fibronectin, which provide structural support to the glomerulus. In addition, these cells regulate the filtration rate of the glomerulus by altering their shape and size, thereby changing the surface area available for filtration.

Structure

Intraglomerular mesangial cells are stellate-shaped cells that are located in the mesangium, the central part of the glomerulus. They are surrounded by a basement membrane and are in close contact with both endothelial cells and podocytes, the other two main cell types in the glomerulus.

Role in Disease

Abnormalities in intraglomerular mesangial cells can lead to various kidney diseases. For example, excessive proliferation of these cells can result in glomerulosclerosis, a condition characterized by scarring of the glomeruli. In addition, these cells can become activated in response to injury or inflammation, leading to the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the recruitment of immune cells, which can further damage the kidney.

Research

Research on intraglomerular mesangial cells is ongoing, with the aim of better understanding their role in kidney function and disease. This could potentially lead to the development of new treatments for kidney diseases.