Podocalyxin

Podocalyxin is a heavily glycosylated transmembrane sialoprotein belonging to the CD34 family of cell surface molecules. It is primarily expressed in renal glomerular podocytes, where it plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the glomerular filtration barrier through charge-dependent repulsion and modulation of podocyte foot process architecture. The protein’s large extracellular domain, rich in sialic acid residues, mediates interactions with other molecules, influencing cell signaling and migration. Its multifunctional role makes it a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in both renal diseases and cancer research.