How is histology of glomerulus?

➢Anastomosing network of capillaries invested by two layers of epithelium : The visceral epithelium (composed of podocytes) is part of the capillary wall Fenestrated endothelial cells. ➢ The glomerular basement membrane (GBM), has a thick, electron-dense central layer called the lamina densa, and two thinner, electron-lucent peripheral layers, the lamina rara interna and externa. ➢The GBM consists of collagen (mostly type IV), laminin, polyanionic proteoglycans, fibronectin, and several other glycoproteins. ➢Podocytes, cells that possess interdigitating foot processes that are embedded in and adherent to the lamina rara externa. ➢Adjacent foot processes are separated by filtration slits, which are bridged by a thin slit diaphragm ➢Mesangial cells, lie in a mesangial matrix between the capillaries that supports the glomerular tuft. ➢Mesangial cells , of mesenchymal origin, are contractile and are capable of proliferation, of laying down collagen and other matrix components, and of secreting a number of biologically active mediators in response to cytokines and other factors