Nyreceller

Nyreceller is the Norwegian term for kidney cells, referring to the diverse cell types that constitute the mammalian kidney. In Norwegian scientific usage, the word describes the cellular components involved in filtration, reabsorption, secretion, and hormonal regulation within the organ.

Structure and types: The kidney contains several principal cell populations, including tubular epithelial cells of the proximal tubule, loop of Henle, distal tubule, and collecting duct; glomerular podocytes; glomerular endothelial cells; mesangial cells; interstitial fibroblasts; and resident immune cells. Each type has specialized roles in forming the filtration barrier, reabsorbing nutrients and water, secreting waste products, and supporting local signaling.

Development and regeneration: Kidney development begins in the embryonic intermediate mesoderm, with nephron formation occurring prenatally in humans. After birth, nephrogenesis largely ceases, and repair after injury mainly involves existing tubular cells through dedifferentiation and proliferation, with limited regeneration possible. Researchers study nyreceller both to understand normal physiology and to model disease.

Clinical relevance: Damage to nyreceller, particularly tubular epithelial cells, underpins acute kidney injury and progression of chronic kidney disease. Understanding the biology of these cells informs diagnostic approaches, drug testing, and regenerative therapies.

Research directions: In vitro studies use primary kidney cells, immortalized lines, and pluripotent stem cell–derived nephron segments. Kidney organoids and single-cell transcriptomics help characterize cell types, interactions, and disease mechanisms.