If the afferent arteriole constricts, what direct effect does this have on glomerular filtration rate (GFR)?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the direct effect of afferent arteriole constriction on glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Understanding the function of the afferent arteriole and its role in regulating blood flow into the glomerulus is crucial for answering this question.
Answer
The GFR will decrease.
If the afferent arteriole constricts, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) will decrease.
Answer for screen readers
If the afferent arteriole constricts, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) will decrease.
More Information
Afferent arteriole constriction increases resistance to blood flow into the glomerulus. This results in decreased glomerular hydrostatic pressure, which in turn reduces the GFR.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing the afferent and efferent arterioles. The afferent arteriole brings blood to the glomerulus, while the efferent arteriole carries blood away from the glomerulus. Constricting the afferent arteriole reduces blood flow into the glomerulus, while constricting the efferent arteriole restricts blood flow out of the glomerulus.
Sources
- Physiology, Glomerular Filtration Rate - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- 24.3C: Regulation of Glomerular Filtration Rate - Medicine LibreTexts - med.libretexts.org
- 25.4 Physiology of Urine Formation: Glomerular Filtration - open.oregonstate.education
AI-generated content may contain errors. Please verify critical information
