The specialised epithelial cells of Bowman’s capsule that create filtration slits are called:

Correct Option

The correct option is Podocytes.

Explanation

The Bowman’s capsule is a double-walled cup-like structure at the beginning of the nephron in the kidney. The filtration of blood (ultrafiltration) occurs across the membrane separating the glomerular capillaries and the lumen of the Bowman’s capsule. This filtration barrier is composed of the endothelium of glomerular blood vessels, the epithelium of Bowman’s capsule, and a basement membrane between them.

Detailed Analysis

• Podocytes: Podocytes (Correct)

  Podocytes are specialized epithelial cells located in the visceral layer (inner layer) of the Bowman’s capsule. They possess foot-like projections called pedicels or foot processes. These projections wrap around the capillaries of the glomerulus in an intricate manner. The spaces between these foot processes are called filtration slits or slit pores. Blood is filtered through these slits so finely that almost all constituents of the plasma, except the proteins, pass into the lumen of the Bowman’s capsule.

• Principal cells: Principal cells (Incorrect)

  Principal cells are the main cell type found in the collecting ducts and the late distal convoluted tubules. They are responsible for sodium reabsorption and potassium secretion. They are the primary target for hormones such as Aldosterone and Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH), regulating water and electrolyte balance.

• Intercalated cells: Intercalated cells (Incorrect)

  Intercalated cells are also found in the collecting ducts alongside principal cells. They play a critical role in acid-base homeostasis by secreting hydrogen ions (H⁺) and reabsorbing bicarbonate (HCO₃^-) or vice versa, depending on the body's needs.

• Juxtaglomerular cells: Juxtaglomerular cells (Incorrect)

  Juxtaglomerular (JG) cells are specialized smooth muscle cells located primarily in the wall of the afferent arteriole. They function as baroreceptors to detect blood pressure changes and are responsible for synthesizing, storing, and secreting the enzyme renin, which initiates the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS).

Key Takeaway

Podocytes are the specialized cells of the visceral epithelium of Bowman's capsule that form filtration slits, essential for the ultrafiltration of blood plasma during urine formation.