Advances in pathogenesis of minimal change nephrotic syndrome

Abstract

Minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) is the most common nephrotic syndrome among children.Although the details of pathogenesis remain unknown, it is widely considered that upregulated expression of T lymphocyte cell cytokines contributes to the initiation of MCNS.Moreover, studies had revealed that altered number and function of B lymphocyte cells could change the functions of antigen presentation, participating in the onset of MCNS by affecting the function of T lymphocyte cells.Recently, CD80 has emerged as popular research topic which exerts its effects via the change of podocytes morphology, thereby affecting the glomerular permeability.However, neither immune nor podocyte dysfunction is poorly demonstrated to be associated with the pathogenesis of MCNS, the hypothesis such as a 'two hit disorder and γδT cells exacerbate podocyte injury via the CD28/B7-1-phosphor-SRC kinase pathway are raised.In the current review, we summarized the related investigations to help us to understand the mechanisms and pathogenesis of MCNS. Key words: Minimal change nephrotic syndrome; Pathogenesis; T lymphocyte cells; B lymphocyte cells; CD80