What type of cells are typically affected in diabetic nephropathy?

In diabetic nephropathy, podocytes are the primary cells affected. Podocytes are specialized epithelial cells that line the glomerular capsule and are crucial for maintaining glomerular filtration barrier integrity. In the context of diabetes, hyperglycemia leads to a series of biochemical changes that result in podocyte injury and loss. This loss of podocytes is a significant contributor to the progression of diabetic nephropathy, as it reduces the nephron's ability to filter blood effectively.

When podocytes become injured or lose their function, the filtration barrier becomes compromised, leading to proteinuria and further renal impairment. The adaptive responses of the kidney often involve structural changes, including hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the remaining podocytes, but these changes are insufficient to compensate for the loss and ultimately contribute to nephron damage and fibrosis.

Understanding the role of podocytes in diabetic nephropathy is essential, as it highlights their importance in renal health and the pathological changes that occur due to diabetes, leading to chronic kidney disease.