The Bowman’s capsule is lined with unique cells called podocytes (‘foot-cells’). Podocytes possess major foot like processes, each supporting a series of minor processes. These minor processes are interwoven with those from other podocytes to form a number of slits, through which filtration can occur. These slits permit the passage of all plasma constituents but act as a barrier to blood cells. Podocytes do not fit tightly together, but form a network of slits that fit over the capillary continuous basement membrane. This finer filter prevents the passage of larger molecules, so the larger molecules (mainly proteins) remain in the blood.
