Introduction to the Kidneys (L2)

Question 1

What are the functions of the kidneys?

Answer 1

• To remove organic waste products from body fluids

- To discharge waste products into the environment

Question 2

What are the two types of nephrons?

Answer 2

• Cortical nephrons make up 70-80% of nephrons and are located in the cortex. They have a short loop of Henle that extends into the medulla
• Juxtamedullary nephrons make up of 20-30% and is located closer to the medulla, with the long loop of Henle that extends deep into the medulla.

Question 3

What is the order of blood vessels that supply the nephrons?

Answer 3

1) Renal artery
2) Segmental arteries
3) Interlobar arteries
4) Arcuate arteries
5) Interlobular arteries
6) Afferent arterioles

Question 4

What is the order of blood flow within a nephron?

Answer 4

1) Glomerulus
2) Efferent arteriole
3) Peritubular capillaries

Question 5

What is the order of blood for that leaves a nephron?

Answer 5

1) Venules
2) Interlobular veins
3) Arcuate veins
4) Interlobar veins
5) Renal vein

Question 6

What are the three major functions of the nephron?

Answer 6

• Filtration of blood to produce a filtrate
• Reabsorption of water, ions and organic nutrients from the filtrate
• Secretion of waste products into the tubular fluid