Cell types with mesenchymal phenotypes detected in the kidneya
Cell Type | Markers | Specific Characteristics | References |
---|---|---|---|
Resident Fibroblasts | FSP1, HSP47, 5′ectonucleotidase, CD44, ICAM, DDR2 | Phenotypic variability between cortical and medullary fibroblasts | 41, 44, 63 |
Myofibroblasts | α-SMA | 13 | |
Pericytes | α-SMA, NG2, PDGFR-2, Desmin | Associated capillaries and venoles | 64, 65 |
Vascular smooth muscle cells | α-SMA, caldesmon, calponin | Associated arteries, arterioles, veins | 64 |
EMT-derived fibroblasts | FSP1 (residual epithelial markers?) | Exclusively found in fibrotic kidneys | 41, 44 |
Mesenchymal stem cells | FSP1? | 44 |
↵a At least 6 distinct cell types with mesenchymal phenotypes can be detected in the kidney. Due to the lack of specific markers, identification of the different lineages can be challenging. In the normal kidney, myofibroblasts can be distinguished from vascular smooth muscle cells and pericytes based on topographical criteria. Without genetic markers, indisputable identification of EMT-derived cells and mesenchymal stem cells is not feasible as of yet. HSP47, heat shock protein 47; ICAM, intracellular adhesion molecule; DDR2, discoidin domain receptor; α-SMA, α-smooth muscle actin; NG2, neuron glial antigen 2; PDGFR, PDGF receptor; EMT, epithelial–mesenchymal transition.