The Penn Medicine New Horizons in Nephrology Glomerular Disease Webinar 2026 provides a focused, expert-led clinical update on the pathophysiology and modern management of complex glomerular diseases. The program heavily emphasizes the role of the B-cell pathway, featuring specific targeting strategies and case-based applications for conditions such as IgA nephropathy, lupus nephritis, and membranous nephropathy.

B cells play a central role in the pathogenesis of many glomerular diseases through antibody production, antigen presentation, and cytokine release that drive renal inflammation and injury. Diseases such as lupus nephritis, membranous nephropathy, IgA nephropathy, and ANCA-associated vasculitis are characterized by pathogenic autoantibodies or immune complex deposition, underscoring B cells as key therapeutic targets. Advances in our understanding of B-cell biology have led to the development of novel treatment strategies, including monoclonal antibodies targeting CD20 (rituximab, obinutuzumab), CD19, and BAFF/APRIL signaling pathways. These therapies aim to modulate B-cell activity, reduce pathogenic antibody production, and achieve sustained disease remission with fewer side effects compared to traditional immunosuppression. Given the rapidly expanding landscape of B-cell–directed therapies and their emerging indications in glomerular diseases, it is critical for clinicians to understand their mechanisms, efficacy data, and safety considerations to optimize patient outcomes.

Course Date: Thursday, February 26, 2026, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

2. Learning Objectives

• Analyze the underlying physiology and monitoring strategies of the B-cell pathway in the context of glomerular diseases.

• Evaluate the clinical efficacy and application of B-cell targeting therapies in the management of IgA Nephropathy.

• Implement updated, evidence-based B-cell targeting protocols for the treatment of Lupus Nephritis.

• Assess novel therapeutic approaches and targeted interventions for Membranous Nephropathy and Primary Podocytopathy.

• Apply advanced diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to real-world clinical scenarios through expert-led case presentations.

3. Target Audience

4. Topics

1. Ask the Panel – 01

2. Ask the Panel

3. B-cell Targeting in IgA Nephropathy

4. B-cell Targeting in Lupus Nephritis

5. B-cell Targeting in Membranous Nephropathy, Primary Podocytopathy

6. Case Presentation 1- Membranous Nephropathy

7. Case Presentation 2- Lupus Nephritis

8. Case presentation 3- IgA Nephropathy

9. Physiology, Monitoring and Targeting the B-Cell Pathway