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Learn MoreGlomerular Basement Membrane
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Overview
Glomerular Basement Membrane Overview
The glomerular basement membrane (GBM) is the negatively charged extracellular matrix component of the glomerular filtration barrier (GFB). It lies between glomerular endothelial cells and podocytes, separates the vasculature from the urinary space, and provides structural support for the capillary tuft. The GBM allows free passage of water and small solutes but restricts the passage of macromolecules. It serves an adhesive substrate for endothelial cells and podocytes and is composed primarily of Laminin, Collagen IV, Nidogen, and Agrin secreted by both cell types. During glomerulogenesis, the Collagen isoform composition changes from (a1)2a2 to a3a4a5, and the Laminin isoform composition changes from LM-111 to LM-511 to LM-521. Loss of GBM integrity can result from hereditary mutation in these proteins (Pierson and Alport syndromes) or autoimmune targeting (antiglomerular basement membrane/anti-GBM disease). Complement activation due to impaired recruitment of Complement Factor H to the GBM is a major feature of membranous nephropathy and lupus nephritis.