Glomerular Filtration Barrier

Overview

Introduction

• Glomerular filtration barrier
  • a membrane that selectively allows the passage of molecules based on size and charge
  • the glomerular filtration barrier is composed of
    • fenestrated capillary endothelium
    • basement membrane
      • contains heparan sulfate, a negatively charge glycoprotein that repels negatively charged molecules (e.g., proteins such as albumin) 
      • also contains type IV collagen
        • clinical correlate
          • Goodpasture’s syndrome
            • an autoimmune disorder that consists of antibodies against α3 chain of type IV collagen of the basement membrane of both the glomerulus and alveoli
              • this is categorized as a type II hypersensitivity reaction
    • epithelial layer
      • contains podocyte foot processes
        • clinical correlate
          • minimal change disease
            • a type of nephrotic syndrome that is categorized by effacement of the podocyte foot processes appreciated on