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Podocyte

Meaning

Podocytes are highly specialized epithelial cells that constitute the visceral layer of Bowman’s capsule in the kidney’s glomerulus, playing a critical role in the filtration of blood. These cells possess intricate, interdigitating foot processes that wrap around the glomerular capillaries, forming the final, size-selective barrier of the glomerular filtration membrane. The structural integrity and function of podocytes are essential for preventing the loss of vital proteins, such as albumin, into the urine, a process that can be disrupted by systemic conditions like diabetes or hormonal imbalances.