Nephron Structure and Function

What is the main function of the glomerulus in the nephron?

Which structure collects glomerular filtrate after it is filtered by the glomerulus?

What is the role of the proximal convoluted tubule (PCT) in the nephron?

Which hormone influences water reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule (DCT)?

What does the collecting duct mainly do in the nephron?

Which part of the nephron is responsible for the reabsorption of bicarbonate?

How does the afferent arteriole differ from the efferent arteriole in structure?

Where does urine from the collecting duct ultimately go?

Nephron Structure and Function

Glomerulus: Acts as an ultrafilter, filtering non-colloidal parts of plasma (glomerular filtrate).
Bowman's Capsule: Collects the glomerular filtrate.
Renal Tubule: Starts at Bowman's capsule, ends at collecting tubules, differentiated into four regions:
- Proximal Convoluted Tubule: First part, highly coiled, prominent brush border for reabsorption.
- Henle's Loop (Loop of Henle): U-shaped loop in the medulla, four segments (descending thick, descending thin, ascending thin, ascending thick).
- Distal Convoluted Tubule: Third coiled part, opens into collecting tubules, cubical epithelial cells with granular cytoplasm.
- Collecting Tubule: Joins distal convoluted tubules of multiple nephrons; forms the duct of Bellini, cubical epithelial cells.
Afferent/Efferent Arterioles: The arrangement creates higher glomerular pressure, facilitating filtration.

Nephron Functions

Glomerulus: Filters the non-colloidal parts of blood plasma.
Proximal Convoluted Tubule: Reabsorbs glucose, amino acids, water, NaCl, phosphate, and sulphate.
Henle's Loop: Reabsorbs the rest of glucose and bicarbonate, water reabsorption also occurs.
Distal Convoluted Tubule: Reabsorbs water under influence of ADH and aldosterone, synthesizes ammonia, and hydrogen ions.
Collecting Tubule: Reabsorbs water and concentrates urine; collects urine, sends it to the duct of Bellini.

Role of Nephron in Urine Formation

Filtration: Glomerulus filters blood, producing glomerular filtrate.

Explore the intricate anatomy and roles of the nephron in kidney function. This quiz covers components like the glomerulus, Bowman's capsule, and various parts of the renal tubule, highlighting their specific functions in filtration and reabsorption. Test your knowledge of how these structures work together to maintain homeostasis.