Fenestrated Capillary EM
Fenestrated Capillary EM

Fenestrated Capillary EM

This electron micrograph shows a capillary with a fenestrated endothelium. These capillaries are far more permeable than those with continuous endothelial linings. Identify the endothelial cells lining the capillary, and the fenestrae, or gaps, between the cells. Barely visible is an electron-dense line known as the diaphragm that functions as a filtration barrier. Fenestrated capillaries are prominent in the kidney, intestine and endocrine glands. Identify the fuzzy structure that surrounds the epithelial cell. How does this structure regulate the diffusion of protein?
Answer: The fuzzy structure is the basement membrane which is negatively charged and inhibits the diffusion of negatively charged proteins such as albumin.