The anti-PLA2R antibody in primary membranous nephropathy targets the M-type phospholipase A2 receptor expressed on:
- A Glomerular endothelial cells
- B Mesangial cells
- C Podocytes ✓
- D Tubular epithelial cells
Correct answer: C. Podocytes
Explanation
PLA2R (M-type phospholipase A2 receptor) is constitutively expressed on the basal surface of podocyte foot processes. In ~70-80% of primary membranous nephropathy, circulating IgG4 anti-PLA2R antibodies bind this podocyte antigen in situ, activating complement via the lectin and alternative pathways, forming the characteristic subepithelial immune deposits and disrupting the slit diaphragm. Serum anti-PLA2R titer correlates with disease activity and predicts spontaneous remission or relapse. THSD7A is the second target antigen in PLA2R-negative primary MN.
Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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