The Structure of Kidneys Flashcards
What is the primary function of kidneys in homeostasis
Maintain a constant internal environment by regulating fluid balance, electrolyte and removing waste through excretion
Where are the kidney’s located in the body
Each lies on either side of spine, adjacent to posterior wall of abdominal cavity
What is a nephron
Functional unit of kidney
consisting of tubules and vascular component
What are the main parts of nephron
Bowman’s capsule
Proximal convoluted tubule
Loop of Henle
Distal convoluted tubule
Collecting duct
What blood vessels are associated with nephron
Afferent/efferent arterioles
Glomerulus
Vasa recta
What are the 3 layers of ultrafiltration barrier in nephron
Fenestrated capillary endothelium
Basement membrane
Podocyte
What is the role of fenestrated capillaries in filtration
Allow plasma components to pass but block blood cells
What are the function of basement membrane in nephron
Filter by size and charge - collogen and glycoproteins repel large and negative molecules like protein
What do podocytes do
They have slits between foot processes that allow ultrafiltrate like water, ions, glucose to pass into tubules
Which substances pass through filtration barrier into nephron
Water, ions, amino acids, urea and glucose
Which substances are blocked by filtration barrier
Proteins, blood cells
