Mesangial cells
Mesangial Cells
Mesangial cells (/mɪˈsændʒiəl/ cells) are specialized cells in the kidney that play several important roles in kidney function. They are located in the glomerulus, a network of tiny blood vessels in the kidney where blood is filtered to form urine.
Etymology
The term "mesangial" is derived from the Greek words "mesos" meaning middle, and "angeion" meaning vessel. This refers to the location of these cells in the middle of the blood vessels in the glomerulus.
Function
Mesangial cells have several functions. They help to regulate blood flow in the glomerulus, and they also produce extracellular matrix, a substance that provides structural support to the glomerulus. In addition, mesangial cells can contract and relax, similar to smooth muscle cells, which helps to regulate the filtration rate of the glomerulus.
Related Terms
- Glomerulus: A network of tiny blood vessels in the kidney where blood is filtered to form urine.
- Extracellular matrix: A complex network of proteins and carbohydrates that provides structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells.
- Smooth muscle cells: Cells found in the walls of organs and structures such as the esophagus, stomach, intestines, bronchi, uterus, urethra, blood vessels, and the arrector pili in the skin.
Diseases and Conditions
Abnormalities or damage to mesangial cells can lead to various kidney diseases, such as glomerulonephritis, a type of kidney disease that causes inflammation and damage to the glomerulus.
See Also
- Nephrology: The branch of medicine that deals with the study of the kidneys.
- Renal physiology: The study of the functions of the kidneys.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Mesangial cells
- Wikipedia's article - Mesangial cells
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