Human Renal Glomerular Epithelial Cells (HRGEpC) have received increasing attention lately as researchers work to better understand their pathophysiology. Active investigations suggest HRGEpC may serve as a selective permeability barrier to urinary filtrate. Other studies indicate functions related to mechanosensing and contraction.
As a network of capillaries at the beginning of the kidney nephron, the glomerulus filters blood carried out by the nephron during urine formation. The blood plasma is filtered by passing through the glomerular membrane, consisting of the capillary wall and the epithelial layer of Bowman's capsule. This glomerular capillary tuft is supported by a matrix of collagen and surrounded by an envelope of epithelial cells.
While the precise role of HRGEpC in disease remains unclear, glomerular problems are a leading cause of kidney disease. When activated, HRGEpC show elevated proliferation, migration and ECM production, activities possibly tied to glomerulonephritis, diabetic nephropathy and other pathologies.
HRGEpC are rigorously tested for their ability to attach and spread on tissue culture ware and proliferate in RenaEpi Growth Medium.
Characterization: HRGEpC stain positive for Nephrin, pan-CK and Vimentin expression by ICC staining
