ABSTRACT
The kidney plays a major role in removal of low molecular weight proteins (LMWPs) and other low molecular weight solutes from the circulation. Following glomerular filtration, substances present in the glomerular filtrate are subsequently processed by the proximal tubule. Under normal physiological conditions, many are almost completely reclaimed from the tubular fluid via an intensive process of reabsorption. Much of this reabsorptive process involves uptake and catabolism of LMWPs and other substances via receptor-mediated endocytosis. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to describe the general importance and relevance of the endocytic process to the kidney specifically and the animal in general.
