Histopathological and Immunohistochemical Analysis of Podocyte Loss and cellular Adaptation in Diabetic Nephropathy

Abstract

This study investigates the histopathological and cellular mechanisms involved in diabetic nephropathy (DN), focusing particularly on podocyte loss and cellular adaptation. Using immunohistochemical markers such as WT1, MIB1, CK8/18, CD68, and Hale’s colloidal iron staining, renal biopsy samples from 14 DN patients were analyzed and compared with control cases. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in WT1-positive podocytes in DN, indicating podocyte depletion, while increased WT1 expression in Bowman’s capsule suggested activation of parietal epithelial cells as a compensatory response. Reduced Hale’s staining reflected loss of the glomerular basement membrane’s negative charge, associated with structural damage and podocyte loss. Additionally, increased macrophage infiltration (CD68+) correlated with interstitial fibrosis, tubular atrophy, and glomerulosclerosis, highlighting the role of inflammation in disease progression. Overall, the findings emphasize the complex interaction between podocyte loss, cellular adaptation, and inflammation in the progression of diabetic nephropathy.