O60500

Nephrin also known as NPHS1 is a crucial member of the immunoglobulin family of cell adhesion molecules, primarily located in the glomerular podocytes of the kidney, where nephrin plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the glomerular filtration barrier. NPHS1 is essential for size- and charge-selective ultrafiltration, as NPHS1 forms part of the slit diaphragm structure between podocyte foot processes. The nephrin gene is located on chromosome 19q13.1 and encodes a 1,241 amino acid protein that features a transmembrane domain, eight immunoglobulin-like domains, and one fibronectin III-like domain, which are critical for structural and functional properties. Nephrin′s interaction with podocin enhances signaling capabilities, stimulating mitogen-activated protein kinases, and indicating involvement in intracellular signaling pathways that regulate kidney function.