Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 7, 2026

Single-channel Analysis and Calcium Imaging in the Podocytes of the Freshly Isolated Glomeruli
Published on: June 27, 2015
Role of megalin and cubilin in renal physiology and pathophysiology
1University of Aarhus, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Anatomy, University Park, Building 234, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark. eic@ana.au.dk
Abstract:
Megalin and cubilin are endocytic receptors highly expressed in the endocytic apparatus of the renal proximal tubule. These receptors appear to be responsible for the tubular clearance of most proteins filtered in the glomeruli. Cubilin is a peripheral membrane protein, and therefore it does not have an endocytosis signaling sequence. It appears that megalin is responsible for internalization of cubilin and its ligands in addition to internalizing its own ligands. The proteinuria observed in megalin-deficient mice, in dogs lacking functional cubilin, and in patients with distinct mutations of the cubilin gene illustrates the importance of the receptors.
Related Concept Videos
Introduction to Urinary System
The kidneys are bean-shaped organs located in the retroperitoneal space, on either side of the vertebral column, between the T12 and L3 vertebrae. They are partially protected by the rib cage and surrounded by perirenal fat, which provides cushioning. They are responsible for urine formation and play critical roles in regulating blood pressure, electrolyte levels, and hormone production. The ureters...
Renal Corpuscle
Glomerulus: Structure and Function
The glomerulus is a tiny, intricate network of capillaries located at the beginning of the nephron. It's enveloped by the Bowman's capsule and receives its blood supply from an afferent arteriole, which divides into numerous capillaries...
Glomerular Filtration Rate and its Regulation
GFR regulation involves two primary intrinsic controls: the myogenic and tubuloglomerular feedback mechanisms.
The myogenic...
Physiology of the Genitourinary System I: Renal Blood Flow and Glomerular Filtration
Physiology of the Genitourinary System II: Tubular Reabsorption and Secretion
Physiology of the Genitourinary System III: Urine Concentration and Dilution

