The kidneys develop from intermediate mesoderm and progress through three stages - pronephros, mesonephros and metanephros. The metanephros forms the permanent kidneys. It develops from interaction between the ureteric bud and metanephric mesenchyme. Nephrons develop from mesenchyme and the collecting system from the ureteric bud. The kidneys ascend during development due to body growth. Common anomalies include horseshoe kidney and abnormal rotation or position of the kidneys.