Identify the podocytes structure and explain their significance in renal physiology?

Explanation

Podocytes: The external parietal layer of the Bowman.s capsule is made up of simple squamous epithelium and the visceral layer is made of epithelial cells called podocytes. The podocytes end in foot processes which cling to the basement membrane of the glomerulus. The openings between the foot processes are called filtration slits. The blood is filtered through these slits.
Role of Podocytes: - Small molecules such as water, glucose are able to pass through the filtration slits and form an ultra filtrate in tubular fluid which is further processed by the nephron to produce urine. They are also involved in regulation of glomerular filtration rate (GFR).