Nephron and Renal Structures Flashcards

Study Notes

Nephron Overview

Nephrons are the basic functional units of the kidney, responsible for filtering blood and forming urine.
Each nephron consists of two main components: the renal corpuscle and the renal tubule.

Renal Corpuscle

Composed of the glomerulus and Bowman's capsule.
The primary function is filtration, where blood undergoes the initial filtration process.

Filtration Process

Blood pressure drives the filtration in the renal corpuscle.
Small substances are filtered out from the blood in the glomerulus and enter Bowman's capsule.

Renal Tubule

Responsible for the reabsorption of essential substances and secretion of waste products.
Composed of three main parts:
- Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT)
- Loop of Henle
- Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT)

Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT)

The PCT is the first segment of the renal tubule and is located closest to Bowman's capsule.
It is a tightly coiled structure that reabsorbs nutrients, electrolytes, and water from the filtrate.

Loop of Henle

The Loop of Henle features a single looping structure that extends down into the renal medulla.
Plays a critical role in concentrating urine and maintaining osmotic balance.

Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT)

The DCT is the segment farthest from Bowman's capsule.
It continues the processes of reabsorption and secretion, fine-tuning the composition of urine.

Collecting Duct

The collecting duct gathers urine from multiple nephrons.
It transports the final urine to the renal papillae, leading to the renal pelvis.

Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA)

The JGA is a specialized structure that regulates blood pressure through the secretion of renin.
Renin is an enzyme that plays a pivotal role in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, which elevates blood pressure.

Description

This quiz provides flashcards covering key concepts related to the nephron, including the renal corpuscle and renal tubule. Learn about the structure and functions of these essential components of the kidney, which filter blood and produce urine. Perfect for students studying renal physiology.