Podocyte foot processes

Structure

A podocyte has a complex structure. Its cell body has extending major or primary processes that form secondary processes as podocyte foot processes or pedicels. The primary processes are held by microtubules and intermediate filaments. The foot processes have an actin-based cytoskeleton. Podocytes are found lining the Bowman's capsules in the nephrons of the kidney. The pedicels or foot processes wrap around the glomerular capillaries to form the filtration slits. The pedicels increase the surface area of the cells enabling efficient ultrafiltration.