Which cell type comprises the visceral layer of Bowman's capsule?

Which cell type comprises the visceral layer of Bowman's capsule?

• A. Endothelial cells
• B. Mesangial cells
• C. Podocytes
• D. Juxtaglomerular cells

Answer: (C)

Podocytes are the visceral layer of Bowman's capsule. These are highly specialized epithelial cells that wrap around the glomerular capillaries with interdigitating foot processes (pedicels). The spaces between these foot processes form filtration slits with slit diaphragms that help create the kidney’s filtration barrier, working alongside the fenestrated endothelium and the glomerular basement membrane. The opposite layer, the parietal layer, is a simple squamous epithelium that lines Bowman's capsule and is continuous with the rest of the nephron, while other cell types like endothelial cells line the capillaries, mesangial cells provide structural support within the glomerulus, and juxtaglomerular cells are in the wall of the afferent arteriole for renin release—not part of the visceral layer.

Podocytes are the visceral layer of Bowman's capsule. These are highly specialized epithelial cells that wrap around the glomerular capillaries with interdigitating foot processes (pedicels). The spaces between these foot processes form filtration slits with slit diaphragms that help create the kidney’s filtration barrier, working alongside the fenestrated endothelium and the glomerular basement membrane. The opposite layer, the parietal layer, is a simple squamous epithelium that lines Bowman's capsule and is continuous with the rest of the nephron, while other cell types like endothelial cells line the capillaries, mesangial cells provide structural support within the glomerulus, and juxtaglomerular cells are in the wall of the afferent arteriole for renin release—not part of the visceral layer.