A role for novel cell-cycle proteins in podocyte biology

Cell-cycle proteins influence almost all aspects of embryogenesis and differentiation. In adults, these proteins control cell division and regeneration after injury. During the past several years, their roles in controlling reaction to stress have been demonstrated in several organ systems. In the kidney, the cell types affected include both tubular and glomerular compartments. Now a novel cell cycle-related protein is shown to influence podocyte biology.