renal vesicle progenitor cell differentiation

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The process in which relatively unspecialized cells acquire specialized structural and/or functional features that characterize the renal vesicle progenitor cells of the kidney as it progresses from its formation to the mature state. A renal vesicle progenitor cell is a cell that will give rise to terminally differentiated cells of the renal vesicle without self-renewing. [GOC:mtg_kidney_jan10]

Renal vesicle progenitor cell differentiation is a complex and tightly regulated process that involves a series of molecular and cellular events leading to the formation of mature renal vesicles, the functional units of the kidney. The process begins with the commitment of multipotent mesenchymal cells to a renal lineage, followed by their migration and aggregation to form the metanephric mesenchyme. The metanephric mesenchyme interacts with the ureteric bud, an outgrowth from the Wolffian duct, and this interaction induces the formation of the renal vesicle progenitors. These progenitors undergo a series of morphological and molecular changes that involve a cascade of transcription factors, signaling molecules, and extracellular matrix components. Key transcription factors involved include Pax2, Wt1, Six2, and Osr1, which regulate the expression of genes involved in cell fate specification, proliferation, and survival. Signaling pathways such as Wnt, FGF, and BMP play crucial roles in mediating cell-cell interactions and controlling cell fate decisions. The renal vesicle progenitors undergo a process of epithelialization, transforming from mesenchymal cells into epithelial cells that form the renal vesicle. The vesicle then undergoes further differentiation and branching morphogenesis, forming a complex network of tubules that eventually differentiate into the various nephron segments, the functional unit of the kidney. The process involves the coordinated regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, and apoptosis, ensuring the proper development of the kidney. The molecular mechanisms controlling renal vesicle progenitor differentiation are complex and involve a multitude of factors, making it a fascinating and important area of research. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing therapies for kidney diseases and for regenerative medicine applications.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (1)