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Mechanical challenges to the glomerulus and podocyte loss: evolution of a paradigm

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Abstract

In this article, I shall outline some of the most important aspects of the evidentiary basis of the so-called Kriz model for the development of glomerular sclerosis, a model that we continue to modify to this day. In my mind, the most important findings include the fact that podocytes are generally post-mitotic cells, so that loss of a significant number for any cause leads to podocyte insufficiency. Another pivotal finding is that in many experimental models and in human disease, podocytes detach from the GBM as living cells. These facts, together with biomechanical deduction, have led to the ongoing evolution of the original Heidelberg model.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pediatrics, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA

    Kevin V. Lemley

  2. Division of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, 4650 Sunset Blvd, MS#40, Los Angeles, CA, 90027, USA

    Kevin V. Lemley

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  1. Kevin V. Lemley
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Correspondence to Kevin V. Lemley.

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This article is part of the special issue on Functional Anatomy of the Kidney in Health and Disease in Pflügers Archiv – European Journal of Physiology

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Lemley, K.V. Mechanical challenges to the glomerulus and podocyte loss: evolution of a paradigm. Pflugers Arch - Eur J Physiol 469, 959–963 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00424-017-2012-0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00424-017-2012-0

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