Renal System: Structure, Function, Urine Formation

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Questions and Answers

Which neuronal type is characterized by a continuous dendrite and axon, with the cell body situated to the side, and is predominantly found in the peripheral nervous system?

  • Interneurons
  • Multipolar neurons
  • Bipolar neurons
  • Unipolar neurons (correct)

A neuron transmits an efferent signal to stimulate the contraction of the bicep muscle. What functional class does this neuron belong to?

  • Somatic sensory neuron
  • Visceral motor neuron
  • Somatic motor neuron (correct)
  • Interneuron

Which type of neuron is most abundant in the central nervous system and characterized by multiple dendrites and one axon?

  • Bipolar neuron
  • Multipolar neuron (correct)
  • Sensory neuron
  • Unipolar neuron

If a drug selectively impaired the function of interneurons, which of the following functions would be MOST directly affected?

<p>Coordination of motor activity and distribution of sensory information within the spinal cord. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is studying neurons involved in relaying visual information from the retina to the brain. Which type of neuron is MOST likely involved in this pathway?

<p>Bipolar neurons (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes the role of visceral sensory neurons?

<p>They monitor internal conditions and relay information to the central nervous system. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following structures is responsible for transmitting electrical signals away from the cell body of a neuron?

<p>Axon (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Damage to the somatic motor neurons would result in which of the following?

<p>Inability to control skeletal muscle movement (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a reflex arc, which type of neuron is responsible for directly stimulating a muscle to contract in response to a sensory input?

<p>Motor neuron (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the primary function of the axon terminals?

<p>To transmit signals to other neurons or cells through synapses (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A lesion restricted to the anterior gray horn of the spinal cord would most likely result in which of the following deficits?

<p>Weakness or paralysis of skeletal muscles. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the most direct path for a motor command originating in the central nervous system to reach a skeletal muscle?

<p>Lateral white column → ventral root → spinal nerve → skeletal muscle (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What would be the most likely consequence of a drug that selectively blocks acetylcholinesterase (AChE) at the synapse?

<p>Prolonged depolarization of the postsynaptic membrane. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a researcher selectively damaged the dorsal root ganglia, which of the following sensory functions would be most affected?

<p>Conscious perception of touch and pain. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient exhibits impaired function of visceral motor nuclei. In which region of the spinal cord would damage most likely be found?

<p>Lateral gray horn of the thoracic and lumbar segments. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the autonomic nervous system (ANS) differ structurally from the somatic nervous system in its path from the CNS to the effector?

<p>The ANS uses two motor neurons in series, while the somatic nervous system uses a single motor neuron. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which event is most directly triggered by the influx of $Ca^{2+}$ into the axon terminal during synaptic transmission?

<p>Exocytosis of neurotransmitters. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the filtration membrane within the renal corpuscle?

<p>Selectively allows water, ions, nutrients, and metabolic wastes to enter the capsular space based on size and charge. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the proximal convoluted tubule (PCT) in the process of urine formation?

<p>Selective reabsorption of water, ions, and nutrients from filtrate back into the bloodstream. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the loop of Henle contribute to urine formation?

<p>It creates a concentration gradient in the medulla of the kidney, facilitating water reabsorption. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What regulatory mechanism primarily governs the function of the distal convoluted tubule (DCT)?

<p>Hormonal control, primarily by aldosterone, which influences sodium and potassium transport. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does antidiuretic hormone (ADH) influence the function of the collecting duct?

<p>By increasing the permeability of the collecting duct to water, promoting water reabsorption. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which waste product is produced during the breakdown of amino acids?

<p>Urea (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the functional relationship between the afferent and efferent arterioles and the glomerulus?

<p>The afferent arteriole supplies blood to the glomerulus, while the efferent arteriole drains blood away from it. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Given their anatomical location relative to the kidneys, what is a key consideration regarding the adrenal glands?

<p>Their close proximity allows for direct hormonal interaction with renal processes. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a patient presents with significantly decreased blood sodium levels and chronically low blood pressure, which adrenal cortex zone is most likely malfunctioning?

<p>Zona Glomerulosa, responsible for mineralocorticoid production (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is investigating a new drug that selectively inhibits the action of ACTH on the adrenal cortex. Which of the following hormonal responses would be most directly affected by this drug?

<p>Decreased secretion of cortisol, impacting glucose metabolism (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is diagnosed with a tumor in the adrenal cortex that causes excessive secretion of androgens. What would be the most likely set of symptoms observed in an adult female patient?

<p>Increased muscle mass, increased blood cell formation, and increased libido (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During a stressful situation, the adrenal medulla releases catecholamines. What is the primary mechanism by which epinephrine contributes to increased blood glucose levels?

<p>Stimulating glycogenolysis in the liver and skeletal muscles (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is studying the effects of a drug that selectively targets the Zona Reticularis of the adrenal cortex. Which of the following outcomes would provide the strongest evidence that the drug is functioning as intended?

<p>A significant decrease in the patient's plasma androgen levels (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How would the long-term use of a medication that mimics the effects of aldosterone MOST directly impact potassium levels, and where would this effect primarily manifest?

<p>Increased potassium excretion in the kidneys (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Damage to the sella turcica would MOST directly endanger which endocrine structure?

<p>The pituitary gland (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the anatomical relationship between the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland MOST directly facilitate endocrine control?

<p>Storage and release of hormones synthesized in the hypothalamus by the posterior pituitary (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which structural feature is MOST responsible for differentiating the anterior pituitary (adenohypophysis) from the posterior pituitary (neurohypophysis) in terms of function?

<p>The presence of endocrine cells responsible for hormone synthesis in the anterior pituitary (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A new drug is designed to specifically enhance glucose synthesis and glycogen formation. This drug would MOST likely mimic the effects of hormones produced by which region of the adrenal gland?

<p>The Zona Fasciculata (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A pharmaceutical company is developing a drug to precisely control thyroid hormone levels. Which mechanism would be the MOST effective target for this drug to achieve highly specific regulation?

<p>Modulation of TRH receptors on the thyrotrope cells of the anterior pituitary, influencing TSH release. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is investigating the effects of chronic stress on reproductive function in males. Which hormonal interaction is MOST likely to be disrupted by elevated cortisol levels, leading to decreased testosterone production?

<p>Suppression of GnRH release from the hypothalamus, leading to reduced LH secretion and subsequent decrease in testosterone synthesis. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with symptoms of acromegaly (excess GH). Further investigation reveals a pituitary adenoma that is secreting excessive GH. Which of the following therapeutic strategies would MOST directly address the cause of acromegaly in this patient?

<p>Surgical removal or radiation therapy to ablate the GH-secreting pituitary adenoma. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A woman is having difficulty lactating after childbirth. Assuming her prolactin levels are normal, which of the following hormonal imbalances is the LEAST likely cause of her lactation insufficiency?

<p>Excessive secretion of growth hormone-inhibiting hormone (GH–IH) from the hypothalamus. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is studying the coordinated hormonal events that regulate the menstrual cycle. Which of the following sequences accurately reflects the hormonal cascade leading to ovulation?

<p>FSH increase → estrogen increase → LH surge → ovulation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is investigating the effects of a novel drug on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The drug initially increases ACTH secretion but, after several weeks, ACTH levels return to baseline despite continued drug administration. What is the MOST likely explanation for this phenomenon?

<p>Increased negative feedback from elevated glucocorticoid levels, suppressing CRH and ACTH secretion. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A long-distance runner experiences secondary amenorrhea (cessation of menstruation) due to intense training. Which hormonal profile is MOST likely contributing to this condition?

<p>Decreased GnRH, LH, and FSH levels due to energy deficiency and stress. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is attempting to develop a therapy to enhance sperm maturation. Which of the following approaches, targeting the hormonal regulation of the male reproductive system, would be MOST effective?

<p>Enhancing FSH signaling in Sertoli cells to promote the production of factors essential for sperm maturation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a suspected pituitary disorder undergoes dynamic testing. Administration of TRH fails to elicit a TSH response. What is the MOST likely location of the lesion causing this hormonal abnormality?

<p>The lesion is within the anterior pituitary, impairing TSH synthesis or release. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A child is diagnosed with idiopathic short stature (ISS) and normal GH levels. However, their IGF-1 levels are significantly below normal. Which of the following interventions is LEAST likely to improve their adult height?

<p>Administering GH–IH analogues to inhibit the pulsatile release of growth hormone. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Nephron

The functional unit of the kidney responsible for urine formation.

Renal Corpuscle

Structure within the nephron consisting of the glomerulus and Bowman’s capsule.

Glomerulus

A network of capillaries in the renal corpuscle where blood filtration occurs.

Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT)

Part of the nephron where reabsorption of water, ions, and nutrients occurs.

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Loop of Henle

U-shaped part of the nephron that reabsorbs water and sodium-chloride ions.

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Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT)

Part of the nephron for active secretion of ions, drugs, and toxins.

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Collecting Duct

Final segment of nephron modifying urine composition, influenced by ADH.

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Normal Urine Wastes

Byproducts like urea, creatinine, and uric acid excreted to maintain homeostasis.

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Adrenal Cortex

Outer part of the adrenal gland that produces hormones.

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Zona Glomerulosa

Outer layer of adrenal cortex producing mineralocorticoids.

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Mineralocorticoids

Hormones that regulate electrolyte balance; main one is aldosterone.

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Aldosterone

Principal mineralocorticoid that helps maintain sodium and potassium balance.

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Zona Fasciculata

Middle layer of adrenal cortex, forms 78% of its volume, produces glucocorticoids.

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Glucocorticoids

Hormones that affect glucose metabolism; cortisol is the most important.

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Cortisol

Main glucocorticoid hormone that increases blood glucose and has anti-inflammatory effects.

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Zona Reticularis

Inner layer of the adrenal cortex that produces androgens.

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Adrenal Medulla

Inner part of the adrenal gland producing catecholamines like epinephrine.

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Catecholamines

Hormones including epinephrine and norepinephrine that increase heart rate and blood pressure.

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Hypophyseal Portal System

The network of capillaries connecting the hypothalamus to the anterior pituitary.

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Thyroid-stimulating Hormone (TSH)

Hormone released to stimulate thyroid gland activity in response to TRH.

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Negative Feedback

A mechanism where high hormone levels reduce their production.

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Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)

Stimulates adrenal cortex to release glucocorticoids in response to CRH.

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Follicle-stimulating Hormone (FSH)

Promotes follicle maturation in females and sperm maturation in males.

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Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

Induces ovulation in females and testosterone secretion in males.

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Prolactin (PRL)

Stimulates milk production in mammary glands during pregnancy and nursing.

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Growth Hormone (GH)

Stimulates growth and replication of cells, especially muscle and cartilage.

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Regulatory Hormones

Hormones from the hypothalamus that control the pituitary gland's hormone release.

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Gonadotropins

Hormones that target male and female gonads, released in response to GnRH.

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Axon

A long projection that transmits electrical signals between neurons.

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Multipolar Neurons

Neurons with multiple dendrites and one long axon, commonly found in the CNS.

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Unipolar Neurons

Sensory neurons with a continuous axon and dendrites, cell body pushed to one side.

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Bipolar Neurons

Rare neurons with one dendrite and one axon, found in special sensory organs.

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Sensory Neurons

Afferent neurons that carry information from receptors to the CNS.

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Motor Neurons

Efferent neurons that send instructions from the CNS to effectors like muscles.

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Interneurons

Neurons that connect sensory and motor neurons, found in the brain and spinal cord.

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Somatic Sensory Neurons

Type of sensory neuron that monitors the external environment.

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Visceral Sensory Neurons

Type of sensory neuron that monitors internal conditions within the body.

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Visceral Motor Neurons

Neurons that innervate cardiac muscle, smooth muscles, and glands.

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Dorsal roots

Nerve roots containing axons of sensory neurons.

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Ventral roots

Nerve roots containing axons of motor neurons from the CNS.

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Gray matter

Region of the spinal cord containing neuron cell bodies and gray horns.

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White matter

Surrounds gray matter and contains myelinated fibers in columns.

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Presynaptic neuron

Neuron sending signals in a synapse, containing neurotransmitter vesicles.

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Postsynaptic neuron

Neuron receiving signals in a synapse, with receptors for neurotransmitters.

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Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

Regulates involuntary body functions using two motor neurons.

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Study Notes

Renal Structure and Function

  • Each kidney contains 1 million nephrons, a functional unit of the kidney.
  • Nephrons consist of a renal corpuscle and a renal tubule.
  • The renal corpuscle includes the glomerulus and Bowman's capsule.
  • Blood arrives at the glomerulus through afferent arterioles and leaves via efferent arterioles.
  • The filtration membrane allows water, metabolic wastes, ions, nutrients, and other solutes to enter the capsular space.
  • The renal tubule is a long tube where urine formation occurs.
  • Urine flows through the following structures: proximal convoluted tubule (PCT), loop of Henle (descending and ascending limbs), distal convoluted tubule (DCT), and collecting duct.
  • The DCT is located near afferent and efferent arterioles of the glomerulus.
  • The collecting duct makes final adjustments to the composition of urine.

Steps in Urine Formation

  • Filtration: The renal corpuscle filters blood to produce a filtrate.
  • Reabsorption: Substances needed by the body are reabsorbed from the filtrate back into the blood. This is done in the PCT, loop of Henle, and DCT
  • Secretion: Substances not needed or harmful are secreted from the blood into the filtrate.
  • Excretion: The urine is expelled from the body.

Normal Waste Products in Urine

  • Urea: The most common organic waste, formed during amino acid breakdown.
  • Creatinine: Produced in skeletal muscle during creatinine phosphate breakdown
  • Uric acid: Formed during ribonucleic acid (RNA) breakdown

Adrenal Glands

  • Adrenal glands are yellow, pyramid-shaped, retroperitoneal organs located on top of each kidney.
  • They are highly vascularized.
  • The adrenal gland is composed of an outer cortex and inner medulla.

Adrenal Cortex

  • Zona Glomerulosa: Outermost layer, produces mineralocorticoids (e.g., aldosterone) which regulate electrolyte balance.
  • Zona Fasciculata: Forms 78% of cortical volume, produces glucocorticoids (e.g., cortisol), affecting glucose metabolism and having anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Zona Reticularis: Narrow band next to the medulla, produces small amounts of androgens (gonadocorticoids).

Adrenal Medulla

  • Produces catecholamines: adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine).
  • These hormones increase cardiac activity, blood pressure, glycogen breakdown, blood glucose levels, and release of lipids by adipose tissue.

Pituitary Gland

  • Also called the hypophysis.
  • Protected by the sella turcica of the sphenoid bone.
  • Attached to the hypothalamus by the infundibulum.
  • Divided into the anterior lobe (adenohypophysis) and posterior lobe (neurohypophysis).
  • The anterior lobe contains endocrine cells and the posterior lobe contains neurons.
  • Regulatory hormones from the hypothalamus are carried to the target cells in the anterior lobe via the hypothalamic-hypophyseal portal system.

Hormones from the Anterior Lobe

  • Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): Released in response to TRH (thyrotropin-releasing hormone) to regulate thyroid hormone release.
  • Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH): Released in response to CRH(corticotropin-releasing hormone) to regulate glucocorticoid release from the adrenal cortex.
  • Gonadotropins (FSH & LH): Released in response to GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) to regulate reproductive function in males and females.
  • Prolactin (PRL): Released in response to PRF (prolactin-releasing factor) to stimulate milk production in females.
  • Growth hormone (GH): Regulated by GH-RH (growth hormone-releasing hormone) and GH-IH (growth hormone-inhibiting hormone) stimulating growth and cell replication.
  • Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH): Increases melanin production in skin, appears to be non-functional in adults.

Hormones from the Posterior Lobe

  • Antidiuretic hormone (ADH): Increases water reabsorption by the kidneys in response to changes in blood volume and solute concentration.
  • Oxytocin (OXT): Stimulates uterine muscle contraction during labor and delivery, and milk ejection from mammary glands.

Nervous System: Neuron Structure

  • Cell body (soma): Contains a nucleus and other organelles.
  • Dendrites: Branching extensions that receive signals from other neurons.
  • Axon: A long projection that transmits signals to other neurons, muscles, or glands.
  • Axon hillock: Point where signals are generated.
  • Axon terminals: End of the axon, release neurotransmitters.

Nervous System: Neuron Classification

  • Multipolar Neurons: Most common type, have multiple dendrites and a single axon.
  • Unipolar Neurons: Sensory neurons; single process extending from the cell body that divides into two branches.
  • Bipolar Neurons: Sensory neurons, found in special sense organs; one axon and one dendrite.

Spinal Cord Structure

  • Gray matter: Forms an "H" shape; contains neuron cell bodies, and nerve fibers.
  • White matter: Contains bundles of nerve fibers (tracts). These axons are myelinated and transmit signals up and down the spinal cord.
  • The gray matter has different projections/regions (horns) that contain different nuclei performing specific roles (Sensory, Somatic Motor, Autonomic Motor nuclei)
  • The white matter has different columns (posterior, anterior, lateral white columns) where sensory and motor tracts are located.

Structure of a Synapse

  • A synapse is the junction between two neurons.
  • It consists of a presynaptic neuron and postsynaptic neuron.
  • Neurotransmitters are released across the synaptic cleft.

Autonomic Nervous System

  • The ANS regulates involuntary functions, including heart rate, digestion, and blood pressure.
  • It has two divisions: the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions that often have opposite effects.
  • The sympathetic division is activated in times of stress and prepares the body for action ("fight-or-flight").
  • The parasympathetic division is active during periods of rest and promotes relaxation ("rest-and-digest").

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