Chapter 2 - Structure of the kidneys

Question 1

The blood flow to the two kidneys is equal to about ___ % (1.25 L/min) of the cardiac output in resting individuals.

Answer 1

25%

Question 2

What are the three components that make up the filtration membrane? (JClark)

Answer 2

The glomerular capillary endothelium
The basement membrane
The foot processes of podocytes

Question 3

Name 5 segments of the nephron? (JClark)

Answer 3

Renal corpuscle
Proximal tubule
Loop of Henle
Distal Tubules
Collecting Ducts

Question 4

What makes up the JGA and why is it important? (JClark)

Answer 4

Macula Dense
Extraglomerular mesangial cells
Renin-producing granular cells of the afferent arterioles

It is important due to it is part of a feedback mechanism that regulates RBF and GFR. It also regulates renin secretion from the granular cells of the afferent arterioles

Question 5

In the kidney, there are two types of nephrons. What are they and how do they differ? (JClark)

Answer 5

Superficial and Juxtamedullary nephrons. The juxtamedullary nephrons have longer loops of henle that allow further concentrations of urine. Its blood supply to the long loops of henle are the vasa recta. These nephrons are most susceptible to hypoperfusion.

Question 6

Why is the vasa recta important?

Answer 6

They convey oxygen and nutrients to the nephron segments, deliver substances to the nephron for secretion, serve as a pathway for the return of reabsorbed water and solutes to the circulatory circulation and concentrating and diluting urine.