Page last updated: 2024-10-24

podocyte differentiation

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The process in which a relatively unspecialized cell acquires specialized features of a glomerular visceral epithelial cell. A glomerular visceral epithelial cell is a specialized epithelial cell that contains 'feet' that interdigitate with the 'feet' of other glomerular epithelial cells. [GOC:mtg_kidney_jan10]

Podocyte differentiation is a complex and tightly regulated process that involves the transformation of precursor cells into mature, highly specialized epithelial cells that form the visceral layer of Bowman's capsule in the kidney. These cells play a critical role in maintaining the glomerular filtration barrier, ensuring the proper filtration of blood and preventing proteinuria. The differentiation process involves a series of molecular and cellular events that orchestrate the acquisition of podocyte-specific characteristics, including:

1. **Commitment to the podocyte lineage:** During kidney development, a subset of progenitor cells in the metanephric mesenchyme is specified to become podocytes. This commitment involves the activation of key transcription factors, such as WT1, PAX2, and LMX1A, which initiate the expression of podocyte-specific genes.

2. **Migration and adhesion:** Committed podocyte progenitors undergo extensive migration, guided by chemoattractants and cell-cell interactions, to reach the developing glomerular capillaries. Upon reaching their target location, they attach to the basement membrane and initiate the formation of the visceral layer of Bowman's capsule.

3. **Morphological differentiation:** Podocyte precursors undergo significant morphological changes, including the formation of characteristic foot processes and the elaboration of the slit diaphragm, a specialized intercellular junction between adjacent podocytes. This process is driven by cytoskeletal rearrangements and the expression of podocyte-specific proteins, such as nephrin, podocin, and CD2AP, which are essential for the structural integrity and function of the filtration barrier.

4. **Acquisition of specialized functions:** Mature podocytes acquire the ability to perform a range of functions essential for glomerular filtration. These include:
- **Filtration:** They act as a selective barrier, filtering blood and preventing the passage of large proteins and cells into the urine.
- **Regulation of glomerular filtration rate:** They contribute to the regulation of blood pressure and glomerular filtration rate by modulating the permeability of the filtration barrier.
- **Immune surveillance:** They express immune receptors and participate in the recognition and clearance of immune complexes from the glomerulus.
- **Growth and repair:** They possess a limited capacity for proliferation and repair, allowing for the maintenance of the glomerular filtration barrier over time.

5. **Establishment of a quiescent state:** Once mature, podocytes enter a relatively quiescent state, minimizing the risk of excessive proliferation and maintaining the stability of the glomerular filtration barrier.

The precise molecular mechanisms regulating podocyte differentiation are still under investigation, but the process is known to be influenced by a complex interplay of signaling pathways, transcription factors, and epigenetic modifications. Disruptions in podocyte differentiation or function can lead to a variety of kidney diseases, including glomerulonephritis, diabetic nephropathy, and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis.'
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Proteins (2)

ProteinDefinitionTaxonomy
Endothelin-1 receptorAn endothelin-1 receptor that is encoded in the genome of human. [PRO:WCB, UniProtKB:P25101]Homo sapiens (human)
Endothelin receptor type BAn endothelin receptor type B that is encoded in the genome of human. [PRO:WCB, UniProtKB:P24530]Homo sapiens (human)

Compounds (55)

CompoundDefinitionClassesRoles
amiodaroneamiodarone : A member of the class of 1-benzofurans that is 1-benzofuran substituted by a butyl group at position 2 and a 4-[2-(diethylamino)ethoxy]-3,5-diiodobenzoyl group at position 3. It is a cardiovascular drug used for the treatment of cardiac dysrhythmias.

Amiodarone: An antianginal and class III antiarrhythmic drug. It increases the duration of ventricular and atrial muscle action by inhibiting POTASSIUM CHANNELS and VOLTAGE-GATED SODIUM CHANNELS. There is a resulting decrease in heart rate and in vascular resistance.
1-benzofurans;
aromatic ketone;
organoiodine compound;
tertiary amino compound
cardiovascular drug
cyproheptadinecyproheptadine : The product resulting from the formal oxidative coupling of position 5 of 5H-dibenzo[a,d]cycloheptene with position 4 of 1-methylpiperidine resulting in the formation of a double bond between the two fragments. It is a sedating antihistamine with antimuscarinic and calcium-channel blocking actions. It is used (particularly as the hydrochloride sesquihydrate) for the relief of allergic conditions including rhinitis, conjunctivitis due to inhalant allergens and foods, urticaria and angioedema, and in pruritic skin disorders. Unlike other antihistamines, it is also a seratonin receptor antagonist, making it useful in conditions such as vascular headache and anorexia.

Cyproheptadine: A serotonin antagonist and a histamine H1 blocker used as antipruritic, appetite stimulant, antiallergic, and for the post-gastrectomy dumping syndrome, etc.
piperidines;
tertiary amine
anti-allergic agent;
antipruritic drug;
gastrointestinal drug;
H1-receptor antagonist;
serotonergic antagonist
avaproirbesartan : A biphenylyltetrazole that is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist used mainly for the treatment of hypertension.

Irbesartan: A spiro compound, biphenyl and tetrazole derivative that acts as an angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist. It is used in the management of HYPERTENSION, and in the treatment of kidney disease.
azaspiro compound;
biphenylyltetrazole
angiotensin receptor antagonist;
antihypertensive agent;
environmental contaminant;
xenobiotic
mianserinmianserin : A dibenzoazepine (specifically 1,2,3,4,10,14b-hexahydrodibenzo[c,f]pyrazino[1,2-a]azepine) methyl-substituted on N-2. Closely related to (and now mostly superseded by) the tetracyclic antidepressant mirtazapinean, it is an atypical antidepressant used in the treatment of depression throughout Europe and elsewhere.

Mianserin: A tetracyclic compound with antidepressant effects. It may cause drowsiness and hematological problems. Its mechanism of therapeutic action is not well understood, although it apparently blocks alpha-adrenergic, histamine H1, and some types of serotonin receptors.
dibenzoazepineadrenergic uptake inhibitor;
alpha-adrenergic antagonist;
antidepressant;
EC 3.4.21.26 (prolyl oligopeptidase) inhibitor;
geroprotector;
H1-receptor antagonist;
histamine agonist;
sedative;
serotonergic antagonist
propranololpropranolol : A propanolamine that is propan-2-ol substituted by a propan-2-ylamino group at position 1 and a naphthalen-1-yloxy group at position 3.

Propranolol: A widely used non-cardioselective beta-adrenergic antagonist. Propranolol has been used for MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION; ARRHYTHMIA; ANGINA PECTORIS; HYPERTENSION; HYPERTHYROIDISM; MIGRAINE; PHEOCHROMOCYTOMA; and ANXIETY but adverse effects instigate replacement by newer drugs.
naphthalenes;
propanolamine;
secondary amine
anti-arrhythmia drug;
antihypertensive agent;
anxiolytic drug;
beta-adrenergic antagonist;
environmental contaminant;
human blood serum metabolite;
vasodilator agent;
xenobiotic
ritanserinritanserin : A thiazolopyrimidine that is 5H-[1,3]thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidin-5-one which is substituted at position 7 by a methyl group and at position 6 by a 2-{4-[bis(4-fluorophenyl)methylidene]piperidin-1-yl}ethyl group. A potent and long-acting seratonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) antagonist of the subtype 5-HT2 (Ki = 0.39 nM), it is used in the treatment of a variety of disorders including anxiety, depression and schizophrenia. It has little sedative action.

Ritanserin: A selective and potent serotonin-2 antagonist that is effective in the treatment of a variety of syndromes related to anxiety and depression. The drug also improves the subjective quality of sleep and decreases portal pressure.
organofluorine compound;
piperidines;
thiazolopyrimidine
antidepressant;
antipsychotic agent;
anxiolytic drug;
dopaminergic antagonist;
EC 3.4.21.26 (prolyl oligopeptidase) inhibitor;
serotonergic antagonist
spiperonespiperone : An azaspiro compound that is 1,3,8-triazaspiro[4.5]decane which is substituted at positions 1, 4, and 8 by phenyl, oxo, and 4-(p-fluorophenyl)-4-oxobutyl groups, respectively.

Spiperone: A spiro butyrophenone analog similar to HALOPERIDOL and other related compounds. It has been recommended in the treatment of SCHIZOPHRENIA.
aromatic ketone;
azaspiro compound;
organofluorine compound;
piperidines;
tertiary amino compound
alpha-adrenergic antagonist;
antipsychotic agent;
dopaminergic antagonist;
psychotropic drug;
serotonergic antagonist
sulfathiazolesulfathiazole : A 1,3-thiazole compound having a 4-aminobenzenesulfonamido group at the 2-position.

Sulfathiazole: A sulfathiazole compound that is used as a short-acting anti-infective agent. It is no longer commonly used systemically due to its toxicity, but may still be applied topically in combination with other drugs for the treatment of vaginal and skin infections, and is still used in veterinary medicine.
1,3-thiazoles;
substituted aniline;
sulfonamide;
sulfonamide antibiotic
antiinfective agent;
drug allergen;
EC 2.5.1.15 (dihydropteroate synthase) inhibitor;
environmental contaminant;
xenobiotic
sulfisoxazolesulfisoxazole : A sulfonamide antibacterial with an oxazole substituent. It has antibiotic activity against a wide range of gram-negative and gram-positive organisms.

Sulfisoxazole: A short-acting sulfonamide antibacterial with activity against a wide range of gram- negative and gram-positive organisms.
isoxazoles;
sulfonamide;
sulfonamide antibiotic
antibacterial drug;
drug allergen
2-bromolysergic acid diethylamide2-bromolysergic acid diethylamide: was heading 1975-94 (see under LYSERGIC ACID DIETHYLAMIDE 1975-90); BROMO-LSD was see 2-BROMOLYSERGIC ACID DIETHYLAMIDE 1975-94; use LYSERGIC ACID DIETHYLAMIDE to search 2-BROMOLYSERGIC ACID DIETHYLAMIDE 1975-94; a serotonin antagonist
metergolinemetergoline : An ergoline alkaloid that is the N-benzyloxycarbonyl derivative of lysergamine. A 5-HT2 antagonist. Also 5-HT1 antagonist and 5-HT1D ligand. Has moderate affinity for 5-HT6 and high affinity for 5-HT7.

Metergoline: A dopamine agonist and serotonin antagonist. It has been used similarly to BROMOCRIPTINE as a dopamine agonist and also for MIGRAINE DISORDERS therapy.
carbamate ester;
ergoline alkaloid
dopamine agonist;
geroprotector;
serotonergic antagonist
butaclamol(+)-butaclamol : An organic heteropentacyclic compound that is 2,3,4,4a,8,9,13b,14-octahydro-1H-benzo[6,7]cyclohepta[1,2,3-de]pyrido[2,1-a]isoquinoline substituted at position 3 by both hydroxy and tert-butyl groups.organic heteropentacyclic compound
butaclamolamino alcohol;
organic heteropentacyclic compound;
tertiary alcohol;
tertiary amino compound
dopaminergic antagonist
mesulerginemesulergine : A member of the class of ergot alkaloids that is known to act on serotonin and dopamine receptors.

mesulergine: RN given refers to parent cpd; CU 32-085 is synonymous to mono-HCl; metabolized into dopaminergic agonists; structure given in first source
ergot alkaloid;
sulfamides
antiparkinson drug;
dopamine agonist;
serotonergic antagonist
bosentan anhydrousBosentan: A sulfonamide and pyrimidine derivative that acts as a dual endothelin receptor antagonist used to manage PULMONARY HYPERTENSION and SYSTEMIC SCLEROSIS.primary alcohol;
pyrimidines;
sulfonamide
antihypertensive agent;
endothelin receptor antagonist
1h-indene-2-carboxylic acid, 1-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-3-(2- (carboxymethoxy)-4-methoxyphenyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-propoxy-, (1s,2r,3s)-1H-Indene-2-carboxylic acid, 1-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-3-(2- (carboxymethoxy)-4-methoxyphenyl)-2,3-dihydro-5-propoxy-, (1S,2R,3S)-: an ET(A) and ET(B) endothelin receptor antagonist; structure in first source
ro 46-2005Ro 46-2005: an orally active non-peptide antagonist of endothelin receptors; structure given in first source
pd 142893PD 142893: functional antagonist of endothelin-stimulated vasoconstriction
5-(dimethylamino)-n-(3,4-dimethyl-5-isoxazolyl)-1-naphthalenesulfonamide5-(dimethylamino)-N-(3,4-dimethyl-5-isoxazolyl)-1-naphthalenesulfonamide: structure in first source; endothelin receptor antagonistnaphthalenes;
sulfonic acid derivative
tak 044TAK 044: endothelin receptor antagonist
endothelin (16-21)endothelin (16-21): C-terminal hexapeptide of endothelin; amino acid seq. given in first sourcepeptide
tezosentantezosentan: structure in first source
bms 207940N-((2'-(((4,5-dimethyl-3-isoxazolyl)amino)sulfonyl)-4-(2-oxazolyl)(1,1'-biphenyl)-2-yl)methyl)-N,3,3-trimethylbutanamide: an ET(A) receptor antagonist; structure in first source
atrasentanAtrasentan: A pyrrolidine and benzodioxole derivative that acts a RECEPTOR, ENDOTHELIN A antagonist. It has therapeutic potential as an antineoplastic agent and for the treatment of DIABETIC NEPHROPATHIES.pyrrolidines
lu 135252
enrasentanenrasentan : A member of the class of indanes that is 2,3-dihydro-1H-indene which is substituted by a 1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl group, carboxy group, 2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)-4-methoxyphenyl group and a propoxy group at positions 1S, 2R, 3S and 5, respectively. It is an orally active mixed endothelin A/B receptor antagonist with a 100-fold greater affinity for the endothelin A receptor. The drug was being developed by GSK for the treatment of congestive heart failure and pulmonary hypertension (clinical trials discontinued).

enrasentan: decreases ischemic brain injury; an endothelin A and B receptor antagonist; structure in first source
aromatic ether;
benzodioxoles;
indanes;
monocarboxylic acid;
monomethoxybenzene;
primary alcohol
antihypertensive agent;
endothelin receptor antagonist
2-[(4,6-dimethyl-2-pyrimidinyl)oxy]-3-methoxy-3,3-diphenylpropanoic aciddiarylmethane
tbc-11251sitaxsentan: endothelin A receptor antagonist; structure in first sourcebenzodioxoles
bq 123cyclo(Trp-Asp-Pro-Val-Leu): derived from the modification of a natural lead of BE-18257B, an endothelin A receptor antagonist; has neuroprotective activity; amino acid sequence given in first sourcecyclic peptide
a 192621A 192621: ET(B) receptor antagonist
irl 2500IRL 2500: Endothelin-B receptor antagonist; structure in first source
ro 46-8443Ro 46-8443: a non-peptide endothelin ET(B) receptor selective antagonist; structure given in first source
sulindac sulfonesulindac sulfone : A sulfone metabolite of sulindac that inhibits cell growth by inducing apoptosis independently of cyclooxygenase inhibition. It inhibits the development and induces regression of premalignant adenomatous polyps. Lipoxygenase and Cox-2 inhibitor.

sulindac sulfone: inhibits K-ras-dependent cyclooxygenase-2; sulfated analog of indomethacin;; CP248 is an antineoplastic agent that fosters microtubule depolymerization; structure in first source
monocarboxylic acid;
organofluorine compound;
sulfone
apoptosis inducer;
cyclooxygenase 2 inhibitor;
EC 1.13.11.34 (arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase) inhibitor
ro 47-8634Ro 47-8634: structure in first source
clazosentanclazosentan: endothelin A receptor antagonist used for cerebral vasospasm; structure in first source;
lu 224332felotaxel: an antineoplastic agent; structure in first source
1-methyl-d-lysergic acid butanolamideergot alkaloid;
monocarboxylic acid amide
serotonergic antagonist;
sympatholytic agent;
vasoconstrictor agent
lu 208075ambrisentan: an ET(A) receptor antagonist and antihypertensive agent; studied for use in pulmonary arterial hypertensiondiarylmethane
bms 193884
sb258741
ci 1020
lu 302872LU 224332: endothelin-A/B receptor antagonist
bms 248360
zibotentanZD4054: a potent endothelin receptor A antagonist that inhibits ovarian carcinoma cell proliferationphenylpyridine
avosentanAvosentan: structure in first source
4-n-butyl-1-(4-(2-methylphenyl)-4-oxo-1-butyl)-piperidine hydrogen chloride
naluzotannaluzotan: an antidepressant and anti-anxiety agent; structure in first source
macitentanaromatic ether;
organobromine compound;
pyrimidines;
ring assembly;
sulfamides
antihypertensive agent;
endothelin receptor antagonist;
orphan drug
a 803467A 803467: an Nav1.8 sodium channel blocker; structure in first source
endothelin-1Endothelin-1: A 21-amino acid peptide produced in a variety of tissues including endothelial and vascular smooth-muscle cells, neurons and astrocytes in the central nervous system, and endometrial cells. It acts as a modulator of vasomotor tone, cell proliferation, and hormone production. (N Eng J Med 1995;333(6):356-63)
pd 156707
act-132577ACT-132577 : A member of the class of sulfamides in which one of the amino groups of sulfonamide is substituted by a 5-(4-bromophenyl)-6-{2-[(5-bromopyrimidin-2-yl)oxy]ethoxy}pyrimidin-4-yl group. An active metabolite of macitentan (obtained by oxidative depropylation), an orphan drug used for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension.

aprocitentan: a macitentan metabolite
aromatic ether;
organobromine compound;
pyrimidines;
sulfamides
antihypertensive agent;
drug metabolite;
endothelin receptor antagonist;
xenobiotic metabolite
endothelins
nitd 609NITD 609: an antimalarial and coccidiostat; structure in first source
clozapineclozapine : A benzodiazepine that is 5H-dibenzo[b,e][1,4]diazepine substituted by a chloro group at position 8 and a 4-methylpiperazin-1-yl group at position 11. It is a second generation antipsychotic used in the treatment of psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia.

Clozapine: A tricylic dibenzodiazepine, classified as an atypical antipsychotic agent. It binds several types of central nervous system receptors, and displays a unique pharmacological profile. Clozapine is a serotonin antagonist, with strong binding to 5-HT 2A/2C receptor subtype. It also displays strong affinity to several dopaminergic receptors, but shows only weak antagonism at the dopamine D2 receptor, a receptor commonly thought to modulate neuroleptic activity. Agranulocytosis is a major adverse effect associated with administration of this agent.
benzodiazepine;
N-arylpiperazine;
N-methylpiperazine;
organochlorine compound
adrenergic antagonist;
dopaminergic antagonist;
EC 3.4.21.26 (prolyl oligopeptidase) inhibitor;
environmental contaminant;
GABA antagonist;
histamine antagonist;
muscarinic antagonist;
second generation antipsychotic;
serotonergic antagonist;
xenobiotic