Hereditary nephritis

Electron micrograph from a patient with hereditary nephritis (Alport's syndrome) shows the characteristic thickening, fraying, and laminations (arrow) of the glomerular basement membrane (GBM).

Electron micrograph of a normal glomerular capillary loop showing the fenestrated endothelial cell (Endo), the glomerular basement membrane (GBM), and the epithelial cells with its interdigitating foot processes (arrow). The GBM is thin, and no electron-dense deposits are present. Two normal platelets are seen in the capillary lumen.