glomerular mesangial cell development

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The process whose specific outcome is the progression of a glomerular mesangial cell in the kidney over time, from its formation to the mature structure. [GOC:mtg_kidney_jan10]

Glomerular mesangial cells (MCs) are specialized pericytes located within the glomerular tuft, a network of capillaries responsible for filtering blood in the kidneys. Their development is a complex process tightly regulated by various signaling pathways and transcription factors, and it involves several key stages:

1. **Origin:** MCs are believed to arise from two primary sources:
* **Mesenchymal progenitors:** These cells, originating from the metanephric mesenchyme, differentiate into MCs during kidney development.
* **Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT):** Glomerular endothelial cells can undergo EMT, transforming into MCs under specific conditions. This process plays a role in MC regeneration and repair.

2. **Proliferation and Differentiation:**
* During early renal development, MC precursors proliferate and differentiate into mature MCs. This process involves the activation of signaling pathways like PDGF, TGF-β, and Wnt, which regulate cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation.
* The expression of specific transcription factors, including WT1, PAX2, and AP-1, is crucial for MC differentiation and maintenance of their identity.

3. **Acquisition of Specialized Functions:** Mature MCs develop specialized functions vital for glomerular homeostasis:
* **Structural support:** MCs provide structural support to the glomerular capillary network, acting as "glue" that holds the capillaries together.
* **Contractility:** MCs possess contractile properties that allow them to regulate glomerular filtration by adjusting the diameter of capillaries.
* **Extracellular matrix (ECM) production:** MCs produce and maintain the ECM surrounding the glomerular capillaries, contributing to the filtration barrier's structure and function.
* **Immune modulation:** MCs interact with immune cells, playing a role in regulating inflammation within the glomerulus.

4. **Homeostatic Maintenance:**
* MCs constantly maintain their structure and function, responding to changes in blood pressure, filtration load, and inflammatory stimuli.
* They contribute to the repair and regeneration of the glomerulus after injury, often by re-entering the cell cycle and undergoing proliferation.

**Factors influencing MC development:**

* **Genetic factors:** Mutations in genes regulating MC development, such as WT1, PAX2, and PDGFRβ, can lead to congenital glomerular diseases.
* **Environmental factors:** Exposure to toxins, infections, and certain medications can impact MC development and function.
* **Age:** MCs undergo changes in their composition and responsiveness as individuals age, contributing to age-related decline in renal function.

The intricate developmental process of MCs is essential for maintaining the glomerular filtration barrier and ensuring proper kidney function. Dysregulation of MC development or function can lead to various glomerular diseases, highlighting the significance of understanding this complex process.'
```"

Proteins (1)

Compounds (1)