The podocytopathies—minimal-change nephropathy, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, collapsing glomerulopathy and diffuse mesangial sclerosis—involve diverse types of injury to podocytes. Although the precise pathologic mechanisms are unclear, evidence has emerged linking the immune system with podocyte injury. Current immunosuppressive treatments have limited efficacy and exert considerable toxicity, but here, Marasà and Kopp discuss how new therapeutic monoclonal antibodies and other biologic therapies have the potential to define pathogenetic pathways and contribute to new therapies.
- Maddalena Marasà
- Jeffrey B. Kopp
