NBME Histology Practice Test

Podocytes are specialized cells associated with which structure in the kidney?

Mesangial cells Podocytes Endothelial cells Macula densa

Correct Answer:

Podocytes

Explanation:

Podocytes are specialized epithelial cells that form the visceral layer of Bowman's capsule and intimately wrap around the glomerular capillaries. Their foot processes interdigitate, creating filtration slits bridged by slit diaphragms, which are essential to the glomerular filtration barrier. This arrangement prevents large proteins from entering the filtrate while allowing water and small solutes to pass, so podocytes are fundamentally linked to the glomerulus—the filtration unit of the kidney.

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