IgA nephropathy over expresses:
**Core Concept**
IgA nephropathy, also known as Berger's disease, is a kidney disease characterized by the deposition of IgA antibodies in the glomeruli, leading to inflammation and damage. The pathogenesis involves the abnormal production or clearance of IgA1 antibodies, which are then deposited in the glomerular mesangium.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the abnormal expression of a specific enzyme in IgA nephropathy. The enzyme responsible for the aberrant glycosylation of IgA1 is **beta-1,3-N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase 5 (N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase 5 or NAGT5)**, leading to the formation of galactose-deficient IgA1. This aberrant glycosylation results in the formation of immune complexes that deposit in the glomeruli.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not relate to the pathogenesis of IgA nephropathy. While IgA1 is indeed implicated in the disease, the specific enzyme involved is beta-1,3-N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase 5 (NAGT5).
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it refers to a different type of kidney disease, specifically minimal change disease, which is characterized by the loss of foot processes in podocytes.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it refers to a different enzyme involved in the glycosylation of IgA1, but not the specific enzyme implicated in IgA nephropathy.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key clinical feature of IgA nephropathy is the presence of hematuria, particularly after an upper respiratory tract infection. The disease often presents with episodic hematuria, which can be a diagnostic clue.
**Correct Answer:** C.