Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which nitrogenous waste is the most toxic and requires large amounts of water for its elimination?
Which nitrogenous waste is the most toxic and requires large amounts of water for its elimination?
- Carbon dioxide
- Uric acid
- Ammonia (correct)
- Urea
Uric acid is excreted by aquatic animals to conserve water.
Uric acid is excreted by aquatic animals to conserve water.
False (B)
What term is used to describe animals that primarily excrete ammonia?
What term is used to describe animals that primarily excrete ammonia?
Ammonotelic
Mammals that excrete urea are known as _______ animals.
Mammals that excrete urea are known as _______ animals.
Match the following nitrogenous wastes with their characteristics:
Match the following nitrogenous wastes with their characteristics:
What role do kidneys play in the removal of ammonia?
What role do kidneys play in the removal of ammonia?
Uricotelic animals excrete nitrogenous wastes in a liquid form.
Uricotelic animals excrete nitrogenous wastes in a liquid form.
Name one example of an ammonotelic animal.
Name one example of an ammonotelic animal.
Which part of the nephron is primarily responsible for the filtration of blood?
Which part of the nephron is primarily responsible for the filtration of blood?
Cortical nephrons have longer loops of Henle compared to juxta medullary nephrons.
Cortical nephrons have longer loops of Henle compared to juxta medullary nephrons.
What are the three main processes involved in urine formation?
What are the three main processes involved in urine formation?
Blood is filtered through three layers: the endothelium of glomerular blood vessels, the epithelium of ______ capsule, and a basement membrane.
Blood is filtered through three layers: the endothelium of glomerular blood vessels, the epithelium of ______ capsule, and a basement membrane.
Match the following nephron types with their characteristics:
Match the following nephron types with their characteristics:
What is the approximate average volume of blood filtered by the kidneys per minute?
What is the approximate average volume of blood filtered by the kidneys per minute?
Podocytes are epithelial cells of the glomerulus that help in the filtration process.
Podocytes are epithelial cells of the glomerulus that help in the filtration process.
The capillary network emerging from the efferent arteriole is called ______ capillaries.
The capillary network emerging from the efferent arteriole is called ______ capillaries.
What is primarily reabsorbed in the Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT)?
What is primarily reabsorbed in the Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT)?
The collecting duct is responsible for producing dilute urine.
The collecting duct is responsible for producing dilute urine.
What mechanism helps maintain the osmolarity in the inner medulla of the kidney?
What mechanism helps maintain the osmolarity in the inner medulla of the kidney?
The flow of filtrate in the two limbs of Henle’s loop is in __________ directions.
The flow of filtrate in the two limbs of Henle’s loop is in __________ directions.
Match the renal structure with its primary function:
Match the renal structure with its primary function:
Which substance is exchanged between the ascending limb of Henle’s loop and the descending limb of vasa recta?
Which substance is exchanged between the ascending limb of Henle’s loop and the descending limb of vasa recta?
The ascending limb of Henle’s loop allows for the passage of urea into the interstitium.
The ascending limb of Henle’s loop allows for the passage of urea into the interstitium.
What ion is selectively secreted by the collecting duct to help maintain pH balance?
What ion is selectively secreted by the collecting duct to help maintain pH balance?
What is the main function of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) in kidney regulation?
What is the main function of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) in kidney regulation?
Angiotensin II is known for causing vasodilation and decreasing blood pressure.
Angiotensin II is known for causing vasodilation and decreasing blood pressure.
What is the role of Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA) in kidney function?
What is the role of Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA) in kidney function?
The mechanism that helps maintain a concentration gradient in the kidneys is called ______.
The mechanism that helps maintain a concentration gradient in the kidneys is called ______.
Match the following hormones with their primary functions:
Match the following hormones with their primary functions:
How much more concentrated can human kidneys make urine compared to the initial filtrate?
How much more concentrated can human kidneys make urine compared to the initial filtrate?
The central nervous system gives the voluntary signal for micturition.
The central nervous system gives the voluntary signal for micturition.
What role do osmoreceptors play in kidney function?
What role do osmoreceptors play in kidney function?
What is the primary method of nitrogenous waste excretion in bony fish?
What is the primary method of nitrogenous waste excretion in bony fish?
The ascending limb of Henle's loop is permeable to water.
The ascending limb of Henle's loop is permeable to water.
The hormone _______ facilitates water reabsorption from the distal parts of the renal tubules.
The hormone _______ facilitates water reabsorption from the distal parts of the renal tubules.
Match the following excretion methods with the corresponding organisms:
Match the following excretion methods with the corresponding organisms:
What is the primary function of the proximal convoluted tubule (PCT)?
What is the primary function of the proximal convoluted tubule (PCT)?
The descending limb of Henle's loop dilutes the filtrate as it moves down.
The descending limb of Henle's loop dilutes the filtrate as it moves down.
What percentage of filtrate is typically reabsorbed in the nephron?
What percentage of filtrate is typically reabsorbed in the nephron?
The process of urine formation involves three main processes: filtration, reabsorption, and _______.
The process of urine formation involves three main processes: filtration, reabsorption, and _______.
What does the term 'Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)' refer to?
What does the term 'Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)' refer to?
The collecting duct allows extensive reabsorption of water only.
The collecting duct allows extensive reabsorption of water only.
Match the following nephron structures with their primary functions:
Match the following nephron structures with their primary functions:
What role does the Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA) play in the nephron?
What role does the Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA) play in the nephron?
Which nitrogenous waste is primarily excreted by reptiles and birds?
Which nitrogenous waste is primarily excreted by reptiles and birds?
Ureotelic animals excrete uric acid as their primary nitrogenous waste.
Ureotelic animals excrete uric acid as their primary nitrogenous waste.
What is the primary method of excreting ammonia in ammonotelic animals?
What is the primary method of excreting ammonia in ammonotelic animals?
Mammals and many terrestrial amphibians are referred to as ________ animals due to their primary excretion of urea.
Mammals and many terrestrial amphibians are referred to as ________ animals due to their primary excretion of urea.
Match the following nitrogenous wastes with their properties:
Match the following nitrogenous wastes with their properties:
Which of the following animals is likely to be ammonotelic?
Which of the following animals is likely to be ammonotelic?
Aquatic amphibians excrete nitrogenous waste primarily as urea.
Aquatic amphibians excrete nitrogenous waste primarily as urea.
What is the advantage of uric acid excretion for terrestrial animals?
What is the advantage of uric acid excretion for terrestrial animals?
What is the primary function of nephridia in annelids?
What is the primary function of nephridia in annelids?
Protonephridia are exclusively found in vertebrates.
Protonephridia are exclusively found in vertebrates.
Name the excretory structures present in crustaceans.
Name the excretory structures present in crustaceans.
The _____ is a broad funnel-shaped space in the kidney where urine collects.
The _____ is a broad funnel-shaped space in the kidney where urine collects.
Match the following excretory structures with the organisms they are associated with:
Match the following excretory structures with the organisms they are associated with:
Which of the following structures is NOT part of the human excretory system?
Which of the following structures is NOT part of the human excretory system?
The average human kidney measures approximately 20 cm in length.
The average human kidney measures approximately 20 cm in length.
What is the average weight range of an adult human kidney?
What is the average weight range of an adult human kidney?
Which part of the nephron is responsible for the majority of reabsorption of water and solutes?
Which part of the nephron is responsible for the majority of reabsorption of water and solutes?
The renal cortex is made up of the glomeruli and renal tubules.
The renal cortex is made up of the glomeruli and renal tubules.
What are the two main components of each nephron?
What are the two main components of each nephron?
The hairpin shaped loop in the nephron is known as __________.
The hairpin shaped loop in the nephron is known as __________.
Match the nephron parts with their functions:
Match the nephron parts with their functions:
Which structure carries blood away from the glomerulus?
Which structure carries blood away from the glomerulus?
The renal columns are extensions of the medulla between the medullary pyramids.
The renal columns are extensions of the medulla between the medullary pyramids.
Blood enters the glomerulus via the __________ arteriole.
Blood enters the glomerulus via the __________ arteriole.
What term describes nephrons with long loops of Henle that extend deep into the medulla?
What term describes nephrons with long loops of Henle that extend deep into the medulla?
Cortical nephrons have a longer loop of Henle than juxta medullary nephrons.
Cortical nephrons have a longer loop of Henle than juxta medullary nephrons.
What is the primary process in urine formation that takes place in the glomerulus?
What is the primary process in urine formation that takes place in the glomerulus?
The arteries that supply blood to the nephron are called ______ arteriole.
The arteries that supply blood to the nephron are called ______ arteriole.
Match the following nephron parts with their primary characteristic:
Match the following nephron parts with their primary characteristic:
What is the average volume of blood filtered by the kidneys per minute?
What is the average volume of blood filtered by the kidneys per minute?
Podocytes are responsible for preventing proteins from passing through the filtration slits.
Podocytes are responsible for preventing proteins from passing through the filtration slits.
What primarily runs parallel to the Loop of Henle forming the vasa recta?
What primarily runs parallel to the Loop of Henle forming the vasa recta?
What is the process called that involves the release of urine?
What is the process called that involves the release of urine?
The main organ responsible for the excretion of carbon dioxide is the liver.
The main organ responsible for the excretion of carbon dioxide is the liver.
What role do the stretch receptors in the urinary bladder play?
What role do the stretch receptors in the urinary bladder play?
The primary waste product excreted in urine is _______.
The primary waste product excreted in urine is _______.
Match the organs with their excretory functions:
Match the organs with their excretory functions:
What characterizes the urine formed by healthy adults?
What characterizes the urine formed by healthy adults?
Uremia is a condition caused by excess urea accumulation in the blood.
Uremia is a condition caused by excess urea accumulation in the blood.
Name one way in which the skin contributes to excretion.
Name one way in which the skin contributes to excretion.
What is the primary purpose of using anticoagulants like heparin during haemodialysis?
What is the primary purpose of using anticoagulants like heparin during haemodialysis?
The main function of the nephron is to transport blood to various organs.
The main function of the nephron is to transport blood to various organs.
What is the composition of dialysing fluid in haemodialysis compared to plasma?
What is the composition of dialysing fluid in haemodialysis compared to plasma?
In kidney transplantation, a functioning kidney is preferably taken from a ______.
In kidney transplantation, a functioning kidney is preferably taken from a ______.
What are renal calculi?
What are renal calculi?
What is the role of the glomerulus in the nephron?
What is the role of the glomerulus in the nephron?
The porous cellophane membrane in the dialysing unit allows all molecules to pass through.
The porous cellophane membrane in the dialysing unit allows all molecules to pass through.
What is the primary function of the glomerulus in the nephron?
What is the primary function of the glomerulus in the nephron?
The renal tubule includes Bowman’s capsule, proximal convoluted tubule, and collecting duct.
The renal tubule includes Bowman’s capsule, proximal convoluted tubule, and collecting duct.
What are the two main parts of a nephron?
What are the two main parts of a nephron?
Which type of nephrons has loops of Henle that dip deep into the medulla?
Which type of nephrons has loops of Henle that dip deep into the medulla?
The function of podocytes is to create filtration slits for blood filtering in the nephron.
The function of podocytes is to create filtration slits for blood filtering in the nephron.
The tubule after Bowman’s capsule is called the _______ convoluted tubule.
The tubule after Bowman’s capsule is called the _______ convoluted tubule.
Match the renal structures with their respective functions:
Match the renal structures with their respective functions:
Which part of the nephron is primarily involved in the reabsorption of water?
Which part of the nephron is primarily involved in the reabsorption of water?
The capillary network formed around the renal tubule is known as ______.
The capillary network formed around the renal tubule is known as ______.
The medulla of the kidney contains renal columns known as Columns of Bertini.
The medulla of the kidney contains renal columns known as Columns of Bertini.
Match the following nephron components with their locations:
Match the following nephron components with their locations:
What percentage of blood is filtered by the kidneys per minute?
What percentage of blood is filtered by the kidneys per minute?
What is the role of the efferent arteriole?
What is the role of the efferent arteriole?
All nephrons have long loops of Henle that extend deep into the medulla.
All nephrons have long loops of Henle that extend deep into the medulla.
In urine formation, glomerular filtration is primarily carried out by the ______.
In urine formation, glomerular filtration is primarily carried out by the ______.
Atrial Natriuretic Factor (ANF) increases blood pressure.
Atrial Natriuretic Factor (ANF) increases blood pressure.
What does ADH stand for?
What does ADH stand for?
The primary function of the Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA) is to regulate __________.
The primary function of the Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA) is to regulate __________.
Which process allows the kidneys to produce urine that is four times more concentrated than the initial filtrate?
Which process allows the kidneys to produce urine that is four times more concentrated than the initial filtrate?
The collecting duct primarily allows the reabsorption of sodium ions.
The collecting duct primarily allows the reabsorption of sodium ions.
What is the outcome of activating osmoreceptors in response to fluid loss?
What is the outcome of activating osmoreceptors in response to fluid loss?
What is the average glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in a healthy individual?
What is the average glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in a healthy individual?
The Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA) is responsible for releasing renin in response to a decrease in glomerular filtration rate.
The Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA) is responsible for releasing renin in response to a decrease in glomerular filtration rate.
The process of reabsorption in the nephron ensures that nearly ______ percent of the filtrate is reabsorbed.
The process of reabsorption in the nephron ensures that nearly ______ percent of the filtrate is reabsorbed.
In which segment of the nephron is water passively reabsorbed in the descending limb?
In which segment of the nephron is water passively reabsorbed in the descending limb?
Match the nephron parts with their primary functions:
Match the nephron parts with their primary functions:
Both active and passive transport mechanisms are involved in the reabsorption of substances in the nephron.
Both active and passive transport mechanisms are involved in the reabsorption of substances in the nephron.
Tubular secretion involves the movement of substances such as ______ and ammonia into the filtrate.
Tubular secretion involves the movement of substances such as ______ and ammonia into the filtrate.
What is the process of releasing urine known as?
What is the process of releasing urine known as?
The presence of glucose in urine is commonly known as Ketonuria.
The presence of glucose in urine is commonly known as Ketonuria.
What initiates the signal for the micturition reflex?
What initiates the signal for the micturition reflex?
The average volume of urine excreted by an adult human is ________ liters per day.
The average volume of urine excreted by an adult human is ________ liters per day.
Match the following organs with their roles in excretion:
Match the following organs with their roles in excretion:
Which of the following is a potential consequence of kidney malfunction?
Which of the following is a potential consequence of kidney malfunction?
Sweat is primarily produced for waste removal.
Sweat is primarily produced for waste removal.
What is hemodialysis used for?
What is hemodialysis used for?
What is the function of the coiled cellophane tube in the artificial kidney during haemodialysis?
What is the function of the coiled cellophane tube in the artificial kidney during haemodialysis?
Kidney transplantation is the first-line treatment for acute renal failures.
Kidney transplantation is the first-line treatment for acute renal failures.
What is the main excretory organ in humans?
What is the main excretory organ in humans?
The unit used in haemodialysis is commonly referred to as the ______ kidney.
The unit used in haemodialysis is commonly referred to as the ______ kidney.
Match the following terms with their definitions:
Match the following terms with their definitions:
Which of the following best describes the role of nephrons in the kidney?
Which of the following best describes the role of nephrons in the kidney?
Name the primary nitrogenous waste excreted by reptiles and birds.
Name the primary nitrogenous waste excreted by reptiles and birds.
The dialysing fluid used in haemodialysis contains nitrogenous wastes.
The dialysing fluid used in haemodialysis contains nitrogenous wastes.
Malpighian tubules are primarily responsible for osmoregulation in crustaceans.
Malpighian tubules are primarily responsible for osmoregulation in crustaceans.
What structures are involved in the human excretory system?
What structures are involved in the human excretory system?
The average weight of a human kidney is ______ grams.
The average weight of a human kidney is ______ grams.
Match the following excretory structures with their corresponding organisms:
Match the following excretory structures with their corresponding organisms:
What is the renal pelvis?
What is the renal pelvis?
The outer layer of the kidney is known as the renal cortex.
The outer layer of the kidney is known as the renal cortex.
The organs of the human excretory system are primarily located between the last ______ vertebra and the third lumbar vertebra.
The organs of the human excretory system are primarily located between the last ______ vertebra and the third lumbar vertebra.
Haemodialysis uses an artificial kidney to filter blood without the need for anticoagulants.
Haemodialysis uses an artificial kidney to filter blood without the need for anticoagulants.
What are the main nitrogenous wastes excreted by mammals?
What are the main nitrogenous wastes excreted by mammals?
The structures that control the production of urine in the kidneys are called _______.
The structures that control the production of urine in the kidneys are called _______.
Match the following components of the urinary system with their functions:
Match the following components of the urinary system with their functions:
Which of the following is NOT a common excretory organ in animals?
Which of the following is NOT a common excretory organ in animals?
Renal calculi are formed from dissolved proteins in the kidney.
Renal calculi are formed from dissolved proteins in the kidney.
What is the role of heparin in the dialysis process?
What is the role of heparin in the dialysis process?
What primarily occurs in the Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT)?
What primarily occurs in the Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT)?
The collecting duct does not play a role in the maintenance of blood pH and ionic balance.
The collecting duct does not play a role in the maintenance of blood pH and ionic balance.
What mechanism is crucial for maintaining osmolarity in the inner medullary interstitium?
What mechanism is crucial for maintaining osmolarity in the inner medullary interstitium?
In mammals, the concentration of urine varies significantly due to the presence of _______ in the nephron.
In mammals, the concentration of urine varies significantly due to the presence of _______ in the nephron.
Match the following structures with their functions:
Match the following structures with their functions:
Which of the following statements about the role of urea in the collecting duct is true?
Which of the following statements about the role of urea in the collecting duct is true?
NaCl is transported by the descending limb of Henle’s loop.
NaCl is transported by the descending limb of Henle’s loop.
How does the flow of filtrate in the limbs of Henle's loop occur?
How does the flow of filtrate in the limbs of Henle's loop occur?
Which nitrogenous waste requires large amounts of water for its elimination?
Which nitrogenous waste requires large amounts of water for its elimination?
Uric acid excretion requires a significant amount of water.
Uric acid excretion requires a significant amount of water.
What term describes animals that excrete urea as their primary nitrogenous waste?
What term describes animals that excrete urea as their primary nitrogenous waste?
The process of excreting nitrogenous wastes in the form of pellets or paste is known as _____.
The process of excreting nitrogenous wastes in the form of pellets or paste is known as _____.
Match the following animal types with their primary nitrogenous waste:
Match the following animal types with their primary nitrogenous waste:
Which of the following is NOT a method of nitrogenous waste excretion?
Which of the following is NOT a method of nitrogenous waste excretion?
The kidneys play a significant role in the elimination of ammonia.
The kidneys play a significant role in the elimination of ammonia.
What is the primary site of reabsorption in the nephron?
What is the primary site of reabsorption in the nephron?
The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) indicates the amount of blood filtered by the glomerulus per minute.
The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) indicates the amount of blood filtered by the glomerulus per minute.
Name one of the three main processes involved in urine formation.
Name one of the three main processes involved in urine formation.
The hormone ______ regulates water reabsorption in the kidney.
The hormone ______ regulates water reabsorption in the kidney.
Match the following nephron components with their roles:
Match the following nephron components with their roles:
Which part of the nephron is primarily responsible for concentrating the urine?
Which part of the nephron is primarily responsible for concentrating the urine?
Protein-free fluid gets filtered from blood plasma into the Bowman’s capsule.
Protein-free fluid gets filtered from blood plasma into the Bowman’s capsule.
Urine is stored in the ______ until it is released through the urethra.
Urine is stored in the ______ until it is released through the urethra.
Which part of the nephron is responsible for producing concentrated urine?
Which part of the nephron is responsible for producing concentrated urine?
The renal tubule only consists of the proximal convoluted tubule.
The renal tubule only consists of the proximal convoluted tubule.
What is the name of the cup-like structure enclosing the glomerulus?
What is the name of the cup-like structure enclosing the glomerulus?
The __________ is a tuft of capillaries formed by the afferent arteriole.
The __________ is a tuft of capillaries formed by the afferent arteriole.
Match the nephron structures with their respective functions:
Match the nephron structures with their respective functions:
Which of the following structures is involved in the reabsorption process?
Which of the following structures is involved in the reabsorption process?
The medulla of the kidney contains the renal columns known as the Columns of Bertini.
The medulla of the kidney contains the renal columns known as the Columns of Bertini.
Which type of nephron has a long loop of Henle that extends deep into the medulla?
Which type of nephron has a long loop of Henle that extends deep into the medulla?
The glomerular filtration rate is approximately 2000-2400 ml of blood filtered by the kidneys per minute.
The glomerular filtration rate is approximately 2000-2400 ml of blood filtered by the kidneys per minute.
The capillaries surrounding the renal tubule are called ______ capillaries.
The capillaries surrounding the renal tubule are called ______ capillaries.
What is the role of the podocytes in the nephron?
What is the role of the podocytes in the nephron?
Cortical nephrons typically have longer loops of Henle compared to juxta medullary nephrons.
Cortical nephrons typically have longer loops of Henle compared to juxta medullary nephrons.
What is the primary purpose of urine formation in the kidneys?
What is the primary purpose of urine formation in the kidneys?
What is the primary role of the liver in excretion?
What is the primary role of the liver in excretion?
What is the term for the process of expelling urine from the body?
What is the term for the process of expelling urine from the body?
The juxtaglomerular apparatus (JGA) plays a key role in _______ regulation.
The juxtaglomerular apparatus (JGA) plays a key role in _______ regulation.
Match the following excretory structures with the corresponding animals:
Match the following excretory structures with the corresponding animals:
What is the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in a healthy individual?
What is the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in a healthy individual?
The juxtaglomerular apparatus (JGA) helps to decrease glomerular blood flow when activated.
The juxtaglomerular apparatus (JGA) helps to decrease glomerular blood flow when activated.
What percentage of the filtrate formed is typically reabsorbed by the renal tubules?
What percentage of the filtrate formed is typically reabsorbed by the renal tubules?
The process by which substances are transported back into the blood from the filtrate is called __________.
The process by which substances are transported back into the blood from the filtrate is called __________.
Match the nephron segments with their primary function:
Match the nephron segments with their primary function:
Which substances are primarily reabsorbed actively in the nephron?
Which substances are primarily reabsorbed actively in the nephron?
Tubular secretion is essential for maintaining acid-base balance in the body.
Tubular secretion is essential for maintaining acid-base balance in the body.
What is released by JG cells when there is a fall in GFR?
What is released by JG cells when there is a fall in GFR?
Henle's loop primarily helps dilute the urine.
Henle's loop primarily helps dilute the urine.
Define Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR).
Define Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR).
The __________ plays a significant role in the regulation of GFR.
The __________ plays a significant role in the regulation of GFR.
Which process is NOT part of urine formation?
Which process is NOT part of urine formation?
Match the following nephron segments with their primary functions:
Match the following nephron segments with their primary functions:
ADH increases the permeability of the collecting duct to water, leading to more concentrated urine.
ADH increases the permeability of the collecting duct to water, leading to more concentrated urine.
What occurs during the micturition process?
What occurs during the micturition process?
The collecting duct allows for the reabsorption of large amounts of urea.
The collecting duct allows for the reabsorption of large amounts of urea.
What role do the Henle’s loop and vasa recta play in the kidneys?
What role do the Henle’s loop and vasa recta play in the kidneys?
The selective secretion of H+ and K+ ions in the collecting duct helps maintain ______ balance.
The selective secretion of H+ and K+ ions in the collecting duct helps maintain ______ balance.
Which ion is selectively reabsorbed in the Distal Convoluted Tubule to maintain sodium-potassium balance?
Which ion is selectively reabsorbed in the Distal Convoluted Tubule to maintain sodium-potassium balance?
The flow of filtrate in the two limbs of Henle’s loop occurs in the same direction.
The flow of filtrate in the two limbs of Henle’s loop occurs in the same direction.
What causes the osmolarity gradient in the inner medulla?
What causes the osmolarity gradient in the inner medulla?
What is the main purpose of dialysing fluid during haemodialysis?
What is the main purpose of dialysing fluid during haemodialysis?
The functioning kidney used in transplantation must come from a direct sibling to minimize rejection risk.
The functioning kidney used in transplantation must come from a direct sibling to minimize rejection risk.
The process of filtering blood is primarily carried out by the __________.
The process of filtering blood is primarily carried out by the __________.
Match the following nitrogenous wastes with their primary excreting animals:
Match the following nitrogenous wastes with their primary excreting animals:
Which of the following describes the role of anti-heparin in haemodialysis?
Which of the following describes the role of anti-heparin in haemodialysis?
The kidneys only excrete nitrogenous wastes and do not play any role in ionic balance.
The kidneys only excrete nitrogenous wastes and do not play any role in ionic balance.
What is the primary function of the collecting duct in the nephron?
What is the primary function of the collecting duct in the nephron?
The specialized portion of the nephron that regulates Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is called the __________.
The specialized portion of the nephron that regulates Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is called the __________.
Match the following parts of the nephron with their primary function:
Match the following parts of the nephron with their primary function:
How much blood is typically filtered by the glomerulus per minute?
How much blood is typically filtered by the glomerulus per minute?
ADH helps in water reabsorption, making the urine more concentrated.
ADH helps in water reabsorption, making the urine more concentrated.
What is the primary function of micturition?
What is the primary function of micturition?
The term osmoregulation refers to the regulation of body fluids and osmotic pressure.
The term osmoregulation refers to the regulation of body fluids and osmotic pressure.
What three main processes are involved in urine formation?
What three main processes are involved in urine formation?
What structures in the kidney are responsible for the filtration of blood?
What structures in the kidney are responsible for the filtration of blood?
The ascending limb of Henle's loop is _______ to water whereas the descending limb is _______ to it.
The ascending limb of Henle's loop is _______ to water whereas the descending limb is _______ to it.
What is the primary function of nephridia in earthworms?
What is the primary function of nephridia in earthworms?
Malpighian tubules are found in mammals.
Malpighian tubules are found in mammals.
What structure connects the kidneys to the bladder?
What structure connects the kidneys to the bladder?
The excretory structures in crustaceans are called _______ glands.
The excretory structures in crustaceans are called _______ glands.
Match the following excretory structures with their respective organisms:
Match the following excretory structures with their respective organisms:
What is the shape of the human kidneys?
What is the shape of the human kidneys?
Which organ primarily initiates the micturition reflex?
Which organ primarily initiates the micturition reflex?
The hilum is where blood vessels enter the kidney.
The hilum is where blood vessels enter the kidney.
Micturition is the process of urine formation.
Micturition is the process of urine formation.
What average volume of urine does an adult human excrete per day?
What average volume of urine does an adult human excrete per day?
The elimination of excretory wastes through the skin occurs via ______.
The elimination of excretory wastes through the skin occurs via ______.
Match the following organs with their primary role in excretion:
Match the following organs with their primary role in excretion:
What is a common condition related to kidney malfunction?
What is a common condition related to kidney malfunction?
The primary function of sweat glands is the elimination of urea.
The primary function of sweat glands is the elimination of urea.
Which waste can indicate diabetes mellitus when found in urine?
Which waste can indicate diabetes mellitus when found in urine?
What is added to the blood during haemodialysis to prevent clotting?
What is added to the blood during haemodialysis to prevent clotting?
The function of kidneys includes the maintenance of ionic and acid-base balance in the body.
The function of kidneys includes the maintenance of ionic and acid-base balance in the body.
What is the functional unit of the kidney?
What is the functional unit of the kidney?
Kidney transplantation is the ultimate method of correcting ______ failures.
Kidney transplantation is the ultimate method of correcting ______ failures.
Match the following types of nitrogenous wastes with the corresponding animal groups:
Match the following types of nitrogenous wastes with the corresponding animal groups:
What component of blood is primarily filtered through the glomerulus?
What component of blood is primarily filtered through the glomerulus?
What are renal calculi composed of?
What are renal calculi composed of?
What is the primary role of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) in kidney function?
What is the primary role of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) in kidney function?
Dialysing fluid used in haemodialysis contains nitrogenous wastes similar to those in blood.
Dialysing fluid used in haemodialysis contains nitrogenous wastes similar to those in blood.
Atrial Natriuretic Factor (ANF) acts to increase blood pressure.
Atrial Natriuretic Factor (ANF) acts to increase blood pressure.
What hormone is released in response to excessive loss of fluid from the body?
What hormone is released in response to excessive loss of fluid from the body?
The mechanism by which the JGA regulates blood pressure is called the _______ mechanism.
The mechanism by which the JGA regulates blood pressure is called the _______ mechanism.
Match the following components of the nephron with their functions:
Match the following components of the nephron with their functions:
Which of the following best describes the role of osmoreceptors in the kidneys?
Which of the following best describes the role of osmoreceptors in the kidneys?
Human kidneys can produce urine that is four times less concentrated than the initial filtrate.
Human kidneys can produce urine that is four times less concentrated than the initial filtrate.
What effect does angiotensin II have on blood pressure?
What effect does angiotensin II have on blood pressure?
Which of the following structures is primarily responsible for excretion in insects?
Which of the following structures is primarily responsible for excretion in insects?
The human excretory system consists of a pair of kidneys, two ureters, a urinary bladder, and a urethra.
The human excretory system consists of a pair of kidneys, two ureters, a urinary bladder, and a urethra.
What are the excretory structures in crustaceans called?
What are the excretory structures in crustaceans called?
The inner part of the kidney that contains a funnel-shaped space is called the ______.
The inner part of the kidney that contains a funnel-shaped space is called the ______.
Match the following structures with their primary functions:
Match the following structures with their primary functions:
Which of the following statements is true about the kidneys?
Which of the following statements is true about the kidneys?
The hilum of the kidney is where blood vessels and nerves exit the kidney.
The hilum of the kidney is where blood vessels and nerves exit the kidney.
What is the average size of an adult human kidney in centimeters?
What is the average size of an adult human kidney in centimeters?
Which of the following animals are primarily ureotelic?
Which of the following animals are primarily ureotelic?
Uric acid is the most toxic form of nitrogenous waste and requires a large amount of water for its elimination.
Uric acid is the most toxic form of nitrogenous waste and requires a large amount of water for its elimination.
What term describes animals that primarily excrete uric acid?
What term describes animals that primarily excrete uric acid?
Aquatic amphibians and many bony fishes mainly excrete nitrogenous wastes in the form of ______.
Aquatic amphibians and many bony fishes mainly excrete nitrogenous wastes in the form of ______.
Match the following nitrogenous wastes with their toxicity levels:
Match the following nitrogenous wastes with their toxicity levels:
Which of the following statements is true regarding the excretion process in animals?
Which of the following statements is true regarding the excretion process in animals?
The process of excreting ammonia is known as ureotelism.
The process of excreting ammonia is known as ureotelism.
Name one of the major forms of nitrogenous waste produced by animals.
Name one of the major forms of nitrogenous waste produced by animals.
Angiotensin II is a powerful vasodilator that decreases blood pressure.
Angiotensin II is a powerful vasodilator that decreases blood pressure.
What mechanism helps to maintain the concentration gradient in the kidneys?
What mechanism helps to maintain the concentration gradient in the kidneys?
The Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA) releases _____ to regulate blood pressure.
The Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA) releases _____ to regulate blood pressure.
Which of the following statements about urine concentration in human kidneys is correct?
Which of the following statements about urine concentration in human kidneys is correct?
The release of Atrial Natriuretic Factor (ANF) results in increased blood pressure.
The release of Atrial Natriuretic Factor (ANF) results in increased blood pressure.
Name the hormone that activates the release of water from the collecting tubule.
Name the hormone that activates the release of water from the collecting tubule.
What term describes nephrons with short loops of Henle that extend only a little into the medulla?
What term describes nephrons with short loops of Henle that extend only a little into the medulla?
The peritubular capillaries are formed from the efferent arteriole of the glomerulus.
The peritubular capillaries are formed from the efferent arteriole of the glomerulus.
The ______ capsule contains podocytes that play a role in blood filtration.
The ______ capsule contains podocytes that play a role in blood filtration.
Match the following components of the nephron with their primary function:
Match the following components of the nephron with their primary function:
What percentage of the blood pumped out by each ventricle is typically filtered by the kidneys per minute?
What percentage of the blood pumped out by each ventricle is typically filtered by the kidneys per minute?
The vasa recta is highly developed in cortical nephrons.
The vasa recta is highly developed in cortical nephrons.
What is the primary role of podocytes in the nephron?
What is the primary role of podocytes in the nephron?
What is the primary process involved in the release of urine?
What is the primary process involved in the release of urine?
The average adult human excretes approximately 2 liters of urine per day.
The average adult human excretes approximately 2 liters of urine per day.
What are the waste materials primarily removed by the lungs?
What are the waste materials primarily removed by the lungs?
The contraction of smooth muscles in the bladder and the relaxation of the urethral sphincter during urine release is part of the ______ reflex.
The contraction of smooth muscles in the bladder and the relaxation of the urethral sphincter during urine release is part of the ______ reflex.
What indicates the presence of diabetes mellitus in urine?
What indicates the presence of diabetes mellitus in urine?
Uremia is a condition resulting from the accumulation of urea in the blood.
Uremia is a condition resulting from the accumulation of urea in the blood.
What is the primary function of sweat glands in relation to excretion?
What is the primary function of sweat glands in relation to excretion?
Which process is primarily responsible for the filtration of blood in the kidneys?
Which process is primarily responsible for the filtration of blood in the kidneys?
The distal convoluted tubule (DCT) is the primary site for reabsorption in the nephron.
The distal convoluted tubule (DCT) is the primary site for reabsorption in the nephron.
What is the function of the counter current mechanism in the kidney?
What is the function of the counter current mechanism in the kidney?
The primary fluid filtered from the blood plasma into the Bowman’s capsule is ________.
The primary fluid filtered from the blood plasma into the Bowman’s capsule is ________.
Urine is released involuntarily through the urethra.
Urine is released involuntarily through the urethra.
What is the primary function of protonephridia in Platyhelminthes?
What is the primary function of protonephridia in Platyhelminthes?
Malpighian tubules are found in earthworms.
Malpighian tubules are found in earthworms.
What are the main excretory structures in crustaceans like prawns?
What are the main excretory structures in crustaceans like prawns?
The average weight of an adult human kidney is between _____ grams.
The average weight of an adult human kidney is between _____ grams.
Match the following excretory structures with the organisms they are found in:
Match the following excretory structures with the organisms they are found in:
Which part of the human kidney is a notch where blood vessels and ureters enter?
Which part of the human kidney is a notch where blood vessels and ureters enter?
The outer layer of the kidney is called the renal pelvis.
The outer layer of the kidney is called the renal pelvis.
What is the shape and color of a human kidney?
What is the shape and color of a human kidney?
The collecting duct increases the water reabsorption based on the body's needs.
The collecting duct increases the water reabsorption based on the body's needs.
What mechanism helps maintain an increasing osmolarity towards the inner medullary interstitium in the kidneys?
What mechanism helps maintain an increasing osmolarity towards the inner medullary interstitium in the kidneys?
The _______ limb of Henle's loop is responsible for NaCl transport.
The _______ limb of Henle's loop is responsible for NaCl transport.
Match the following segments of the nephron with their primary function:
Match the following segments of the nephron with their primary function:
Which statement about the vasa recta is true?
Which statement about the vasa recta is true?
What ions are selectively secreted by the collecting duct to help maintain blood pH balance?
What ions are selectively secreted by the collecting duct to help maintain blood pH balance?
What is the approximate glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in a healthy individual?
What is the approximate glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in a healthy individual?
The majority of the filtrate produced by the kidneys is excreted as urine.
The majority of the filtrate produced by the kidneys is excreted as urine.
What is the function of the juxtaglomerular apparatus (JGA) in the kidneys?
What is the function of the juxtaglomerular apparatus (JGA) in the kidneys?
The proximal convoluted tubule (PCT) reabsorbs approximately _____ percent of electrolytes and water.
The proximal convoluted tubule (PCT) reabsorbs approximately _____ percent of electrolytes and water.
Match the nephron segments with their functions:
Match the nephron segments with their functions:
What process is primarily responsible for reabsorbing glucose and amino acids in the nephron?
What process is primarily responsible for reabsorbing glucose and amino acids in the nephron?
The descending limb of the loop of Henle is impermeable to water.
The descending limb of the loop of Henle is impermeable to water.
What is the main purpose of tubular secretion in the kidneys?
What is the main purpose of tubular secretion in the kidneys?
What is the term used to describe the release of urine?
What is the term used to describe the release of urine?
The primary function of sweat is to eliminate nitrogenous wastes.
The primary function of sweat is to eliminate nitrogenous wastes.
What is the average volume of urine excreted by an adult human per day?
What is the average volume of urine excreted by an adult human per day?
The contraction of smooth muscles of the bladder is initiated by __________.
The contraction of smooth muscles of the bladder is initiated by __________.
Match the following organs to their excretory functions:
Match the following organs to their excretory functions:
What condition is characterized by the accumulation of urea in the blood?
What condition is characterized by the accumulation of urea in the blood?
The presence of glucose in urine indicates a healthy, functioning kidney.
The presence of glucose in urine indicates a healthy, functioning kidney.
Which bodily waste is primarily eliminated through the lungs?
Which bodily waste is primarily eliminated through the lungs?
The process of micturition is under involuntary control only.
The process of micturition is under involuntary control only.
The ________ loop helps maintain osmolar gradient within the kidney interstitium.
The ________ loop helps maintain osmolar gradient within the kidney interstitium.
Match the parts of the nephron with their functions:
Match the parts of the nephron with their functions:
Which of the following best describes the function of the Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA)?
Which of the following best describes the function of the Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA)?
What role does ADH play in kidney function?
What role does ADH play in kidney function?
What are the two main zones inside the kidney?
What are the two main zones inside the kidney?
The renal tubule includes the Bowman’s capsule and the collecting duct.
The renal tubule includes the Bowman’s capsule and the collecting duct.
What is the functional unit of the kidney called?
What is the functional unit of the kidney called?
The double-walled cup-like structure that encloses the glomerulus is called __________.
The double-walled cup-like structure that encloses the glomerulus is called __________.
Match the following parts of the nephron with their functions:
Match the following parts of the nephron with their functions:
What are the conical masses in the medulla called?
What are the conical masses in the medulla called?
The efferent arteriole carries blood towards the glomerulus.
The efferent arteriole carries blood towards the glomerulus.
What structure is formed by the glomerulus and Bowman’s capsule?
What structure is formed by the glomerulus and Bowman’s capsule?
Which part of the nephron is responsible for filtering blood?
Which part of the nephron is responsible for filtering blood?
The renal tubule consists of only one section following the glomerulus.
The renal tubule consists of only one section following the glomerulus.
What structure encloses the glomerulus?
What structure encloses the glomerulus?
The inner region of the kidney contains structures known as __________ pyramids.
The inner region of the kidney contains structures known as __________ pyramids.
Match the nephron components with their functions:
Match the nephron components with their functions:
What is the primary purpose of the renal columns (Columns of Bertini)?
What is the primary purpose of the renal columns (Columns of Bertini)?
Each kidney contains approximately one hundred thousand nephrons.
Each kidney contains approximately one hundred thousand nephrons.
What is the name of the straight tube that many distal convoluted tubules open into?
What is the name of the straight tube that many distal convoluted tubules open into?
What is the primary nitrogenous waste excreted by reptiles and birds?
What is the primary nitrogenous waste excreted by reptiles and birds?
Urea is less toxic than ammonia and requires more water for its excretion.
Urea is less toxic than ammonia and requires more water for its excretion.
What term describes the elimination of ammonia by aquatic animals?
What term describes the elimination of ammonia by aquatic animals?
Mammals, many terrestrial amphibians, and marine fishes primarily excrete __________.
Mammals, many terrestrial amphibians, and marine fishes primarily excrete __________.
Match the following forms of nitrogenous wastes with their toxicities:
Match the following forms of nitrogenous wastes with their toxicities:
Which of the following animals is typically ureotelic?
Which of the following animals is typically ureotelic?
Ammonia is excreted through kidneys in most aquatic animals.
Ammonia is excreted through kidneys in most aquatic animals.
What adaptation do terrestrial animals have for nitrogenous waste excretion?
What adaptation do terrestrial animals have for nitrogenous waste excretion?
What is the primary function of protonephridia in organisms such as Platyhelminthes?
What is the primary function of protonephridia in organisms such as Platyhelminthes?
Nephridia are responsible for osmoregulation in crustaceans.
Nephridia are responsible for osmoregulation in crustaceans.
What are the main components of the human excretory system?
What are the main components of the human excretory system?
The outer layer of the kidney is known as the _______.
The outer layer of the kidney is known as the _______.
Match the following excretory structures with the organisms they belong to:
Match the following excretory structures with the organisms they belong to:
Which of the following is true regarding human kidneys?
Which of the following is true regarding human kidneys?
The renal pelvis is located before the hilum in the kidney.
The renal pelvis is located before the hilum in the kidney.
What is the weight range of an adult human kidney?
What is the weight range of an adult human kidney?
What is the main function of the Malpighian corpuscle in the nephron?
What is the main function of the Malpighian corpuscle in the nephron?
Cortical nephrons have long loops of Henle that extend deep into the medulla.
Cortical nephrons have long loops of Henle that extend deep into the medulla.
The _______ arteriole emerges from the glomerulus and forms a capillary network around the renal tubule.
The _______ arteriole emerges from the glomerulus and forms a capillary network around the renal tubule.
Match the following nephron structures with their corresponding functions:
Match the following nephron structures with their corresponding functions:
What is the approximate volume of blood filtered by the kidneys per minute?
What is the approximate volume of blood filtered by the kidneys per minute?
Vasa recta are present in cortical nephrons.
Vasa recta are present in cortical nephrons.
What is the primary function of the bladder's stretch receptors?
What is the primary function of the bladder's stretch receptors?
Micturition refers to the process of urine formation.
Micturition refers to the process of urine formation.
What is the average daily volume of urine excreted by an adult human?
What is the average daily volume of urine excreted by an adult human?
The presence of glucose in urine is referred to as ______.
The presence of glucose in urine is referred to as ______.
Match the following organs with their excretory roles:
Match the following organs with their excretory roles:
What condition results from the accumulation of urea in the blood?
What condition results from the accumulation of urea in the blood?
What is the primary role of the Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA) in kidney function?
What is the primary role of the Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA) in kidney function?
Sweat primarily functions to eliminate nitrogenous wastes from the body.
Sweat primarily functions to eliminate nitrogenous wastes from the body.
What substances do sebaceous glands secrete?
What substances do sebaceous glands secrete?
What is micturition?
What is micturition?
The term _______ refers to the regulation of water and solute concentrations in the body.
The term _______ refers to the regulation of water and solute concentrations in the body.
What is the primary excretory structure in earthworms?
What is the primary excretory structure in earthworms?
What is the function of the renal pelvis?
What is the function of the renal pelvis?
The __________ glands perform excretory functions in crustaceans.
The __________ glands perform excretory functions in crustaceans.
What is the shape and average weight of human kidneys?
What is the shape and average weight of human kidneys?
The nephron is responsible for reabsorbing all of the blood filtered by the kidneys.
The nephron is responsible for reabsorbing all of the blood filtered by the kidneys.
Approximately how long is an adult human kidney?
Approximately how long is an adult human kidney?
Which of the following organs is NOT primarily involved in excretion?
Which of the following organs is NOT primarily involved in excretion?
Micturition refers to the voluntary act of expelling urine from the urinary bladder.
Micturition refers to the voluntary act of expelling urine from the urinary bladder.
What is osmoregulation?
What is osmoregulation?
The ascending limb of Henle’s loop is _______ to water, while the descending limb is _______ to it.
The ascending limb of Henle’s loop is _______ to water, while the descending limb is _______ to it.
Which nephron type has a shorter loop of Henle?
Which nephron type has a shorter loop of Henle?
Juxta medullary nephrons have loops of Henle that run shallow into the medulla.
Juxta medullary nephrons have loops of Henle that run shallow into the medulla.
What is the primary function of the efferent arteriole in the nephron?
What is the primary function of the efferent arteriole in the nephron?
The three main processes involved in urine formation are glomerular filtration, __________, and secretion.
The three main processes involved in urine formation are glomerular filtration, __________, and secretion.
Podocytes are responsible for reabsorption in the nephron.
Podocytes are responsible for reabsorption in the nephron.
How many milliliters of blood are filtered by the kidneys per minute on average?
How many milliliters of blood are filtered by the kidneys per minute on average?
What structure is responsible for creating the filtration slits in the renal corpuscle?
What structure is responsible for creating the filtration slits in the renal corpuscle?
What is the primary function of antidiuretic hormone (ADH)?
What is the primary function of antidiuretic hormone (ADH)?
The release of Atrial Natriuretic Factor (ANF) results in vasoconstriction and increases blood pressure.
The release of Atrial Natriuretic Factor (ANF) results in vasoconstriction and increases blood pressure.
What does the term 'Renin-Angiotensin mechanism' refer to?
What does the term 'Renin-Angiotensin mechanism' refer to?
An increase in _______ volume can switch off the osmoreceptors and suppress the release of ADH.
An increase in _______ volume can switch off the osmoreceptors and suppress the release of ADH.
Match the following components with their primary functions in kidney regulation:
Match the following components with their primary functions in kidney regulation:
Which component directly activates the adrenal cortex to release Aldosterone?
Which component directly activates the adrenal cortex to release Aldosterone?
Human kidneys can concentrate urine to four times the initial filtrate.
Human kidneys can concentrate urine to four times the initial filtrate.
What effect does an increase in blood pressure have on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR)?
What effect does an increase in blood pressure have on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR)?
What process is called when urine is released from the bladder?
What process is called when urine is released from the bladder?
The primary function of sweat is to remove nitrogenous wastes from the body.
The primary function of sweat is to remove nitrogenous wastes from the body.
What substance in urine is indicative of diabetes mellitus?
What substance in urine is indicative of diabetes mellitus?
Accumulation of urea in the blood due to kidney malfunction is called ______.
Accumulation of urea in the blood due to kidney malfunction is called ______.
How much urine does an adult human excrete on average per day?
How much urine does an adult human excrete on average per day?
Sweat mainly consists of urea and sodium chloride.
Sweat mainly consists of urea and sodium chloride.
What is the term for the neural mechanism causing urine release?
What is the term for the neural mechanism causing urine release?
Reabsorption of glucose in the nephron primarily occurs through passive transport.
Reabsorption of glucose in the nephron primarily occurs through passive transport.
What mechanism is triggered by a fall in GFR to regulate blood flow?
What mechanism is triggered by a fall in GFR to regulate blood flow?
The _______ limb of the loop of Henle is impermeable to water.
The _______ limb of the loop of Henle is impermeable to water.
What percentage of the filtrate is typically reabsorbed by the renal tubules?
What percentage of the filtrate is typically reabsorbed by the renal tubules?
The distal convoluted tubule primarily reabsorbs water passively.
The distal convoluted tubule primarily reabsorbs water passively.
What are the two main transport mechanisms used by tubular epithelial cells for reabsorption?
What are the two main transport mechanisms used by tubular epithelial cells for reabsorption?
What type of excretion is characterized by the elimination of nitrogenous wastes as uric acid?
What type of excretion is characterized by the elimination of nitrogenous wastes as uric acid?
The distal convoluted tubule is primarily responsible for the active reabsorption of glucose.
The distal convoluted tubule is primarily responsible for the active reabsorption of glucose.
Match the parts of excretion with their primary roles:
Match the parts of excretion with their primary roles:
What is the name of the double-walled cup-like structure that encloses the glomerulus?
What is the name of the double-walled cup-like structure that encloses the glomerulus?
The inner medulla of the kidney contains the renal corpuscles.
The inner medulla of the kidney contains the renal corpuscles.
The renal tubule begins with a structure called _______ that encapsulates the glomerulus.
The renal tubule begins with a structure called _______ that encapsulates the glomerulus.
Which structure is responsible for carrying blood away from the glomerulus?
Which structure is responsible for carrying blood away from the glomerulus?
Match the following nephron segments with their corresponding functions:
Match the following nephron segments with their corresponding functions:
The Columns of Bertini are extensions of the inner medulla.
The Columns of Bertini are extensions of the inner medulla.
The conical masses projecting into the calyces are known as _______.
The conical masses projecting into the calyces are known as _______.
Malpighian tubules are excretory structures found in mammals.
Malpighian tubules are excretory structures found in mammals.
What is the average length of a human kidney?
What is the average length of a human kidney?
The excretory function in crustaceans is performed by __________.
The excretory function in crustaceans is performed by __________.
Which part of the human excretory system is responsible for storing urine?
Which part of the human excretory system is responsible for storing urine?
The hilum of the kidney is where blood vessels and nerves enter.
The hilum of the kidney is where blood vessels and nerves enter.
What shape are human kidneys?
What shape are human kidneys?
What is the primary effect of Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) on kidney function?
What is the primary effect of Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) on kidney function?
Micturition refers to the involuntary process of urine excretion.
Micturition refers to the involuntary process of urine excretion.
Name the powerful vasoconstrictor that increases glomerular blood pressure.
Name the powerful vasoconstrictor that increases glomerular blood pressure.
The mechanism that regulates blood pressure and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is known as the _______ mechanism.
The mechanism that regulates blood pressure and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is known as the _______ mechanism.
Match the hormones with their primary functions:
Match the hormones with their primary functions:
The vasa recta plays an essential role in maintaining the concentration gradient in the kidney.
The vasa recta plays an essential role in maintaining the concentration gradient in the kidney.
Human kidneys can produce urine nearly ______ times concentrated than the initial filtrate.
Human kidneys can produce urine nearly ______ times concentrated than the initial filtrate.
Which of the following parts of the nephron is situated in the medulla?
Which of the following parts of the nephron is situated in the medulla?
What is the first step in urine formation?
What is the first step in urine formation?
The capillary network around the renal tubule is called ______ capillaries.
The capillary network around the renal tubule is called ______ capillaries.
Match the following nephron types with their descriptions:
Match the following nephron types with their descriptions:
The filtration slits present in the podocytes allow all components of plasma to pass through.
The filtration slits present in the podocytes allow all components of plasma to pass through.
The proximal convoluted tubule (PCT) reabsorbs nearly all essential nutrients in the nephron.
The proximal convoluted tubule (PCT) reabsorbs nearly all essential nutrients in the nephron.
What is the primary function of the Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA)?
What is the primary function of the Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA)?
The kidneys filter and reabsorb about ________ liters of filtrate per day.
The kidneys filter and reabsorb about ________ liters of filtrate per day.
What type of transport is primarily used for the reabsorption of glucose and amino acids in the nephron?
What type of transport is primarily used for the reabsorption of glucose and amino acids in the nephron?
During urine formation, what substances do tubular cells secrete into the filtrate?
During urine formation, what substances do tubular cells secrete into the filtrate?
What is the role of Henle’s loop in the nephron?
What is the role of Henle’s loop in the nephron?
Filtration in the kidneys is a selective process.
Filtration in the kidneys is a selective process.
What is Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)?
What is Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)?
Which of the following substances can be secreted into the filtrate by the DCT?
Which of the following substances can be secreted into the filtrate by the DCT?
ADH promotes water retention in the kidneys, resulting in concentrated urine.
ADH promotes water retention in the kidneys, resulting in concentrated urine.
What mechanism is involved in concentrating the filtrate in the loop of Henle?
What mechanism is involved in concentrating the filtrate in the loop of Henle?
Which of the following nitrogenous wastes requires the least amount of water for elimination?
Which of the following nitrogenous wastes requires the least amount of water for elimination?
Ammonotelism is a process primarily used by terrestrial mammals for nitrogenous waste elimination.
Ammonotelism is a process primarily used by terrestrial mammals for nitrogenous waste elimination.
What is the form in which reptiles and birds primarily excrete nitrogenous wastes?
What is the form in which reptiles and birds primarily excrete nitrogenous wastes?
Mammals that produce urea as their primary nitrogenous waste are classified as __________ animals.
Mammals that produce urea as their primary nitrogenous waste are classified as __________ animals.
Match the following organisms with their primary nitrogenous waste excretion:
Match the following organisms with their primary nitrogenous waste excretion:
What is one primary advantage of excreting uric acid over ammonia?
What is one primary advantage of excreting uric acid over ammonia?
Uricotelic animals are those that excrete nitrogenous waste in liquid form.
Uricotelic animals are those that excrete nitrogenous waste in liquid form.
Which type of nitrogenous waste do aquatic insects primarily excrete?
Which type of nitrogenous waste do aquatic insects primarily excrete?
Malpighian tubules are responsible for osmoregulation in insects.
Malpighian tubules are responsible for osmoregulation in insects.
What structure in humans connects the kidneys to the urinary bladder?
What structure in humans connects the kidneys to the urinary bladder?
The reddish brown, bean-shaped structures in humans that filter blood are called ______.
The reddish brown, bean-shaped structures in humans that filter blood are called ______.
Which of the following statements about the human kidney is true?
Which of the following statements about the human kidney is true?
What is the primary osmoregulatory function of the antennal glands in crustaceans?
What is the primary osmoregulatory function of the antennal glands in crustaceans?
The __________ is the broad funnel-shaped space inside the kidney that collects urine from the calyces.
The __________ is the broad funnel-shaped space inside the kidney that collects urine from the calyces.
What structure of the nephron is formed by a tuft of capillaries?
What structure of the nephron is formed by a tuft of capillaries?
The renal tubule begins with the glomerulus.
The renal tubule begins with the glomerulus.
The part of the nephron that leads to the collecting duct is called the ______.
The part of the nephron that leads to the collecting duct is called the ______.
Which of the following structures is found within the renal cortex?
Which of the following structures is found within the renal cortex?
What is another name for the renal corpuscle?
What is another name for the renal corpuscle?
The efferent arteriole carries blood away from the glomerulus.
The efferent arteriole carries blood away from the glomerulus.
The urinary bladder's stretch receptors send signals to the central nervous system when it is empty.
The urinary bladder's stretch receptors send signals to the central nervous system when it is empty.
What is the average daily excretion of urine in liters for an adult human?
What is the average daily excretion of urine in liters for an adult human?
Hemodialysis is a process to remove urea during kidney __________.
Hemodialysis is a process to remove urea during kidney __________.
Match the following organs with their respective excretory roles:
Match the following organs with their respective excretory roles:
Which of the following substances is not typically present in urine?
Which of the following substances is not typically present in urine?
Urine is typically a neutral substance with a pH of around 7.0.
Urine is typically a neutral substance with a pH of around 7.0.
What is the main indication of the presence of glucose in urine?
What is the main indication of the presence of glucose in urine?
What is the primary role of the artificial kidney during haemodialysis?
What is the primary role of the artificial kidney during haemodialysis?
Heparin is added to the blood before it enters the artificial kidney to promote clotting.
Heparin is added to the blood before it enters the artificial kidney to promote clotting.
What are the main nitrogenous wastes formed in the body?
What are the main nitrogenous wastes formed in the body?
The ______ is the functional unit of the kidney.
The ______ is the functional unit of the kidney.
Match the following excretory organs with their primary function:
Match the following excretory organs with their primary function:
What is the purpose of anti-heparin when blood is returned to the body after haemodialysis?
What is the purpose of anti-heparin when blood is returned to the body after haemodialysis?
Glomerulonephritis refers to the inflammation of the renal tubule.
Glomerulonephritis refers to the inflammation of the renal tubule.
What is kidney transplantation primarily used to treat?
What is kidney transplantation primarily used to treat?
Which part of the nephron is primarily responsible for the reabsorption of nutrients?
Which part of the nephron is primarily responsible for the reabsorption of nutrients?
The process of filtration in the kidneys is a selective process.
The process of filtration in the kidneys is a selective process.
Micturition is the release of urine from the __________.
Micturition is the release of urine from the __________.
ADH (antidiuretic hormone) helps in the retention of water, thereby making urine more concentrated.
ADH (antidiuretic hormone) helps in the retention of water, thereby making urine more concentrated.
The descending limb of Henle's loop allows for the passage of __________.
The descending limb of Henle's loop allows for the passage of __________.
Flashcards
Ammonotelism
Ammonotelism
The process of excreting ammonia as the primary nitrogenous waste.
Ureotelic animals
Ureotelic animals
Animals that excrete urea as their main nitrogenous waste.
Uricotelic animals
Uricotelic animals
Animals that excrete uric acid as their main nitrogenous waste.
Ammonia
Ammonia
Signup and view all the flashcards
Urea
Urea
Signup and view all the flashcards
Uric acid
Uric acid
Signup and view all the flashcards
Excretory Products
Excretory Products
Signup and view all the flashcards
Kidney's role in excretion
Kidney's role in excretion
Signup and view all the flashcards
Cortical Nephrons
Cortical Nephrons
Signup and view all the flashcards
Juxtamedullary Nephrons
Juxtamedullary Nephrons
Signup and view all the flashcards
Glomerular Filtration
Glomerular Filtration
Signup and view all the flashcards
Vasa Recta
Vasa Recta
Signup and view all the flashcards
Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)
Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)
Signup and view all the flashcards
Peritubular Capillaries
Peritubular Capillaries
Signup and view all the flashcards
Nephron
Nephron
Signup and view all the flashcards
Bowman's Capsule
Bowman's Capsule
Signup and view all the flashcards
Countercurrent mechanism
Countercurrent mechanism
Signup and view all the flashcards
Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)
Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)
Signup and view all the flashcards
Renin-Angiotensin mechanism
Renin-Angiotensin mechanism
Signup and view all the flashcards
Aldosterone
Aldosterone
Signup and view all the flashcards
Atrial Natriuretic Factor (ANF)
Atrial Natriuretic Factor (ANF)
Signup and view all the flashcards
Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA)
Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA)
Signup and view all the flashcards
Micturition
Micturition
Signup and view all the flashcards
Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT) function
Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT) function
Signup and view all the flashcards
Collecting Duct function
Collecting Duct function
Signup and view all the flashcards
Henle's loop function
Henle's loop function
Signup and view all the flashcards
Vasa Recta function
Vasa Recta function
Signup and view all the flashcards
Concentrated Urine formation
Concentrated Urine formation
Signup and view all the flashcards
NaCl transport in countercurrent system
NaCl transport in countercurrent system
Signup and view all the flashcards
Urea transport in countercurrent system
Urea transport in countercurrent system
Signup and view all the flashcards
Liver's role in excretion
Liver's role in excretion
Signup and view all the flashcards
Osmo regulation
Osmo regulation
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the role of Henle's loop?
What is the role of Henle's loop?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the Bowman's capsule?
What is the Bowman's capsule?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What's the function of the Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT)?
What's the function of the Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT)?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the purpose of the counter current mechanism?
What is the purpose of the counter current mechanism?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the function of the Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT)?
What is the function of the Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT)?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What exactly is micturition?
What exactly is micturition?
Signup and view all the flashcards
How does the JGA regulate GFR?
How does the JGA regulate GFR?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Why is ammonia toxic?
Why is ammonia toxic?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Why is urea less toxic than ammonia?
Why is urea less toxic than ammonia?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Why is uric acid the least toxic?
Why is uric acid the least toxic?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What are the advantages of being ureotelic?
What are the advantages of being ureotelic?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What are the advantages of being uricotelic?
What are the advantages of being uricotelic?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Protonephridia
Protonephridia
Signup and view all the flashcards
Nephridia
Nephridia
Signup and view all the flashcards
Malpighian Tubules
Malpighian Tubules
Signup and view all the flashcards
Antennal Glands
Antennal Glands
Signup and view all the flashcards
Kidneys
Kidneys
Signup and view all the flashcards
Ureters
Ureters
Signup and view all the flashcards
Urinary Bladder
Urinary Bladder
Signup and view all the flashcards
Medullary Pyramids
Medullary Pyramids
Signup and view all the flashcards
Columns of Bertini
Columns of Bertini
Signup and view all the flashcards
Glomerulus
Glomerulus
Signup and view all the flashcards
Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT)
Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT)
Signup and view all the flashcards
Henle's Loop
Henle's Loop
Signup and view all the flashcards
Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT)
Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT)
Signup and view all the flashcards
Micturition Reflex
Micturition Reflex
Signup and view all the flashcards
Hemodialysis
Hemodialysis
Signup and view all the flashcards
Glycosuria
Glycosuria
Signup and view all the flashcards
Ketonuria
Ketonuria
Signup and view all the flashcards
Lungs' role in excretion
Lungs' role in excretion
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the function of the PCT?
What is the function of the PCT?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the function of the DCT?
What is the function of the DCT?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the role of the loop of Henle?
What is the role of the loop of Henle?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Artificial Kidney
Artificial Kidney
Signup and view all the flashcards
Dialysing Fluid
Dialysing Fluid
Signup and view all the flashcards
Renal Tubule
Renal Tubule
Signup and view all the flashcards
Kidney Transplantation
Kidney Transplantation
Signup and view all the flashcards
Renal Calculi
Renal Calculi
Signup and view all the flashcards
Podocytes
Podocytes
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the function of the loop of Henle?
What is the function of the loop of Henle?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What are the 3 layers involved in filtration?
What are the 3 layers involved in filtration?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Kidney zones
Kidney zones
Signup and view all the flashcards
Renal columns
Renal columns
Signup and view all the flashcards
Proximal convoluted tubule
Proximal convoluted tubule
Signup and view all the flashcards
Distal convoluted tubule
Distal convoluted tubule
Signup and view all the flashcards
GFR
GFR
Signup and view all the flashcards
Reabsorption
Reabsorption
Signup and view all the flashcards
Tubular Secretion
Tubular Secretion
Signup and view all the flashcards
Dialysis
Dialysis
Signup and view all the flashcards
Glomerulonephritis
Glomerulonephritis
Signup and view all the flashcards
What are the key components of the human excretory system?
What are the key components of the human excretory system?
Signup and view all the flashcards
How does the countercurrent mechanism concentrate urine?
How does the countercurrent mechanism concentrate urine?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Ureotelic
Ureotelic
Signup and view all the flashcards
Uricotelic
Uricotelic
Signup and view all the flashcards
Nephron: The Functional Unit
Nephron: The Functional Unit
Signup and view all the flashcards
Glomerulus: The Filter
Glomerulus: The Filter
Signup and view all the flashcards
Proximal Convoluted Tubule: The Reabsorber
Proximal Convoluted Tubule: The Reabsorber
Signup and view all the flashcards
Distal Convoluted Tubule: The Fine-Tuner
Distal Convoluted Tubule: The Fine-Tuner
Signup and view all the flashcards
Collecting Duct: The Final Route
Collecting Duct: The Final Route
Signup and view all the flashcards
Henle's Loop: The Concentration Expert
Henle's Loop: The Concentration Expert
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is hemodialysis?
What is hemodialysis?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the countercurrent mechanism?
What is the countercurrent mechanism?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Collecting Duct
Collecting Duct
Signup and view all the flashcards
NaCl Transport
NaCl Transport
Signup and view all the flashcards
Urea Transport
Urea Transport
Signup and view all the flashcards
Osmolarity Gradient
Osmolarity Gradient
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the role of the Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT)?
What is the role of the Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT)?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Secretion
Secretion
Signup and view all the flashcards
What three layers are involved in filtration?
What three layers are involved in filtration?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the role of the Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT)?
What is the role of the Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT)?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the function of the Collecting Duct?
What is the function of the Collecting Duct?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Glucose Reabsorption
Glucose Reabsorption
Signup and view all the flashcards
ADH (Antidiuretic Hormone)
ADH (Antidiuretic Hormone)
Signup and view all the flashcards
ANF (Atrial Natriuretic Factor)
ANF (Atrial Natriuretic Factor)
Signup and view all the flashcards
What are the other organs involved in excretion?
What are the other organs involved in excretion?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the function of sweat?
What is the function of sweat?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the role of sebaceous glands?
What is the role of sebaceous glands?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What components make up the human excretory system?
What components make up the human excretory system?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Autoregulation of GFR
Autoregulation of GFR
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is osmoregulation?
What is osmoregulation?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Why are some animals ammonotelic?
Why are some animals ammonotelic?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Why are some animals ureotelic?
Why are some animals ureotelic?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Why are some animals uricotelic?
Why are some animals uricotelic?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Hilum
Hilum
Signup and view all the flashcards
Filtration Slits
Filtration Slits
Signup and view all the flashcards
Sweat's Role in Excretion
Sweat's Role in Excretion
Signup and view all the flashcards
Sebum's Role in Excretion
Sebum's Role in Excretion
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the role of the Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA)?
What is the role of the Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA)?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What happens during micturition?
What happens during micturition?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What are the roles of the skin, lungs, and liver in excretion?
What are the roles of the skin, lungs, and liver in excretion?
Signup and view all the flashcards
JGA (Juxtaglomerular Apparatus)
JGA (Juxtaglomerular Apparatus)
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the role of the vasa recta?
What is the role of the vasa recta?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Antennal Glands (Green Glands)
Antennal Glands (Green Glands)
Signup and view all the flashcards
Nephron: Functional Unit
Nephron: Functional Unit
Signup and view all the flashcards
Role of Lungs in Excretion
Role of Lungs in Excretion
Signup and view all the flashcards
Liver's Excretory Function
Liver's Excretory Function
Signup and view all the flashcards
Skin's Excretory Role
Skin's Excretory Role
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the role of the Bowman's capsule?
What is the role of the Bowman's capsule?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What are the three main processes involved in urine formation?
What are the three main processes involved in urine formation?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is GFR?
What is GFR?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Advantages of being ureotelic
Advantages of being ureotelic
Signup and view all the flashcards
Advantages of being uricotelic
Advantages of being uricotelic
Signup and view all the flashcards
What are the three layers involved in Filtration?
What are the three layers involved in Filtration?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the role of the nephron?
What is the role of the nephron?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the peritubular capillary network?
What is the peritubular capillary network?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What are vasa recta?
What are vasa recta?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What are podocytes?
What are podocytes?
Signup and view all the flashcards
How is urine formation regulated?
How is urine formation regulated?
Signup and view all the flashcards
JGA's role
JGA's role
Signup and view all the flashcards
PCT's function
PCT's function
Signup and view all the flashcards
Henle's Loop's role
Henle's Loop's role
Signup and view all the flashcards
How do the kidneys regulate blood pressure?
How do the kidneys regulate blood pressure?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Liver's Role
Liver's Role
Signup and view all the flashcards
What are other organs involved in excretion?
What are other organs involved in excretion?
Signup and view all the flashcards
How does skin help in excretion?
How does skin help in excretion?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Renal Pelvis
Renal Pelvis
Signup and view all the flashcards
Cortical Nephrons: Where are they?
Cortical Nephrons: Where are they?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Juxtamedullary Nephrons: Where are they?
Juxtamedullary Nephrons: Where are they?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Peritubular Capillaries: What do they do?
Peritubular Capillaries: What do they do?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Vasa Recta: What is it?
Vasa Recta: What is it?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Glomerular Filtration: What happens here?
Glomerular Filtration: What happens here?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the role of podocytes?
What is the role of podocytes?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the osmolarity gradient?
What is the osmolarity gradient?
Signup and view all the flashcards
GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate)
GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate)
Signup and view all the flashcards
Concentrated Urine
Concentrated Urine
Signup and view all the flashcards
Concentration Gradient
Concentration Gradient
Signup and view all the flashcards
Reabsorption in the PCT
Reabsorption in the PCT
Signup and view all the flashcards
DCT and Collecting Duct Function
DCT and Collecting Duct Function
Signup and view all the flashcards
Skin, Lungs, and Liver in Excretion
Skin, Lungs, and Liver in Excretion
Signup and view all the flashcards
Skin's Role in Excretion
Skin's Role in Excretion
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the role of Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT)?
What is the role of Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT)?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the major site of reabsorption?
What is the major site of reabsorption?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is micturition?
What is micturition?
Signup and view all the flashcards
How does the kidney conserve water?
How does the kidney conserve water?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Why do different animals use different forms of nitrogenous waste?
Why do different animals use different forms of nitrogenous waste?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is the role of the kidneys in excretion?
What is the role of the kidneys in excretion?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What are the advantages of excreting uric acid?
What are the advantages of excreting uric acid?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What's the difference between protonephridia and nephridia?
What's the difference between protonephridia and nephridia?
Signup and view all the flashcards
How do Malpighian tubules work?
How do Malpighian tubules work?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Study Notes
Excretory Products and Their Elimination
- Animals accumulate various metabolic byproducts like ammonia, urea, uric acid, water, ions (Na+, K+, Cl-), phosphate and sulfate.
- These substances must be removed partially or completely.
- Ammonia is the most toxic form of nitrogenous waste and requires substantial water for elimination.
- Uric acid is the least toxic and can be eliminated with minimal water loss.
- Ammonotelism is the process of excreting ammonia, common in bony fishes, aquatic amphibians, and aquatic insects. Ammonia is excreted across body surfaces or gills in these animals and kidneys play a minor role in removal.
- Terrestrial adaptations necessitated the production of less toxic nitrogenous wastes such as urea and uric acid, for water conservation.
- Mammals, many terrestrial amphibians and marine fishes utilize urea (ureotelic animals). The liver converts ammonia to urea in these animals; urea is removed by the kidneys.
- Reptiles, birds, land snails, and insects excrete uric acid as pellets or paste (uricotelic animals) and this minimizes water loss.
Human Excretory System
- The human excretory system comprises a pair of kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.
- Kidneys are bean-shaped, reddish brown organs located between the last thoracic and third lumbar vertebrae.
- Each kidney is about 10-12 cm long, 5-7 cm wide, 2-3 cm thick, and weighs 120-170 g.
- The internal concave surface has a notch (hilum) where blood vessels, ureters, and nerves connect to the kidney.
- The outer layer of the kidney is a tough capsule.
- The inner kidney region (medulla) is divided into conical masses (renal pyramids).
- The outer kidney region (cortex) extends between the renal pyramids.
- The renal pelvis is a funnel-shaped space, which is an extension of the kidney tubules.
- The kidney has approximately one million functional units called nephrons.
- Each nephron consists of a glomerulus (a tuft of capillaries) and renal tubule (Bowman's capsule, proximal convoluted tubule, loop of Henle, and distal convoluted tubule). Blood flows from the afferent arteriole into the glomerulus and then exits through the efferent arteriole.
- Glomerular filtration is a process that filters blood plasma and forms filtrate in Bowman's capsule. Nearly all constituents of plasma, except proteins, pass into the filtrate. Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) averages 125 mL/minute.
- Reabsorption is the process where essential nutrients, electrolytes, and water are reabsorbed from the filtrate back into the blood.
- Tubular secretion is a process where various substances, including H+ and K+, are actively secreted from the blood into the filtrate.
- Nephrons' collecting ducts empty into the renal pelvis, which transports the urine through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until voided.
- Urine is a slightly acidic, light yellow fluid. The volume of urine excreted daily is typically 1.5 litres on average. Urine composition helps in clinical diagnosis of various metabolic disorders.
- The kidney, lungs, liver and skin play important roles in excretion and maintaining osmotic balance in the body.
Regulation of Kidney Function
- Hormonal feedback mechanisms (hypothalamus, JGA, and heart) regulate kidney function, primarily through controlling blood volume and ionic concentration.
- Osmoreceptors in the body can detect changes in blood volume, which activates the release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH). This enhances water reabsorption from the renal tubules, reducing urine production, or conversely inhibits water reabsorption if blood volume is high.
- The juxta glomerular apparatus (JGA) plays a significant role by adjusting glomerular blood pressure and blood flow; this system in conjunction with ADH helps to regulate water balance.
- The renin-angiotensin mechanism causes activation of enzymes and hormones that regulate blood pressure by regulating water reabsorption, influencing water and sodium retention in kidneys.
- Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) releases when blood pressure rises, has a vasodilating effect which has a counter-regulatory effect on the renin-angiotensin system.
Urine Formation
- Filtration is the first process involving the glomerulus passing filtrate into Bowman's capsule; this filtrate has almost the same composition as blood plasma, except for proteins and blood cells.
- Reabsorption occurs in the renal tubules, with significant amounts of water and solutes moving from the tubule back into peritubular capillaries.
- Tubular secretion involves the selective secretion of specific substances into the filtrate from the blood.
- Final adjustments to urine concentration occur in the collecting ducts, which also modify urine pH.
- The counter-current mechanism and vasa recta help to concentrate filtrate in the medulla.
Countercurrent Mechanism
- The proximity between the Loop of Henle and the vasa recta causes a concentration gradient in the kidney medulla.
- NaCl is transported by the ascending limb of Loop of Henle.
- The substances move between two limbs of the Loop and vasa recta in a countercurrent manner.
- This mechanism allows for the creation of a high concentration gradient in the medulla, essential for concentrating urine, conserves water.
Disorders of the Excretory System
- Kidney malfunction leads to accumulation of urea in the blood (uremia), which can be treated through hemodialysis.
- Hemalysis is a procedure where blood is run through a dialysis machine to filter out toxins.
- Kidney stones (renal calculi) are insoluble masses of crystallised salts.
- Glomerulonephritis involves inflammation of the glomeruli.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Related Documents
Description
Explore the different types of excretory products produced by animals and their elimination processes. Understand the roles of ammonia, urea, and uric acid in various species, and how adaptations have evolved for water conservation. This quiz covers key concepts related to nitrogenous waste in animals.