* Inflammation in diabetic nephropathy
* Podocyte microenvrionment
* Podocyte/macrophage interaction

Accumulating evidence indicates that diabetic nephropathy is a disorder of the immune system. We are studying the critical role of macrophages that play a pivotal role in the development and progression of diabetic nephropathy through direct effects on podocytes or through alterations of the podocyte niche (microenvironment). In diabetic nephropathy, alterations in the podocyte niche are likely responsible for abnormal podocyte function leading to progressive albuminuria and progressive renal failure. Podocyte function is intimately linked to its complex cytoskeletal structure. As a result of injury, cytoskeletal rearrangement ensues leading to foot process effacement. Demonstrating that macrophages or its effect on podocyte environment play a central role in DN will have important clinical relevance. A number of pharmacological agents targeted to macrophages secretory products could be considered in future trials.