role of mesangial cells

[SamarEsawy]

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I can't imagine the role of mesangial cells ,
according to my text :
1- play a role in regulation of glomerular filtration as their contraction will reduce the surface area available for filtration
2- take up immune complexes and may be involved in the production of glomerular disease
I don't understand how can mesangial cell do this ,

does reducing surface area as a result of contraction of mesangial cells results in increasing capillary pressure?
I think I need a good drawing or animation but I cant find

 

[CherryRedDracul]

Recall that GFR = Kf x [(net hydrostatic pressure) - (net osmotic pressure)] where Kf is filtration constant determined by the product of the hydraulic constant and the filtration surface area. Mesangial cells can contract the basement membrane of glomerular capillaries and decrease the filtration surface area.

So, mesangial cells directly reduce the Kf of the equation, decreasing GFR.

 

[Priapism4tooLong]

I could explain it, but i think this should clear things up

you are welcome

 

[SamarEsawy]

I could explain it, but i think this should clear things upView attachment 181625

you are welcome

Explain it I'd be grateful

 

[Psai]

Less surface area = less space for stuff to go through

 

[Priapism4tooLong]

Explain it I'd be grateful

Mesangial cells have a smooth muscle component. Kind of like blood vessels, like blood vessels regulate blood flow, the nephrons need a way to regulate blood flow as well. The more the mesangial cells contract the less surface area there is for filtration. instead of ______ much area its now __ that much.