Countercurrent/DCT

current multiplier mechanism

The counter ________ refers to the process of creating and maintaining a concentration gradient within the renal medulla, allowing for the reabsorption of water from the collecting ducts.

plasma concentration

When there is an increase in the ________ of aldosterone, it binds to the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) in the cytoplasm of the cells of the DCT.

Aldosterone

________ is a hormone secreted by the adrenal gland that acts on the distal convoluted tubule (DCT) of the kidney to regulate the reabsorption of sodium ions (Na+) and excretion of potassium ions (K+)

Distal Convoluted Tubule

The ________ (DCT) is a vital section of the nephron in the kidney responsible for the final stages of urine formation.

crucial component

In conclusion, the DCT is a(n) ________ of the nephron that actively transports sodium ions through specialized cells that participate in various transport mechanisms.

sodium

The ascending limb of the nephron loop is impermeable to water, but actively transports ________ and chloride ions out of the tubule lumen and into the interstitial fluid.

interstitial fluid

As blood flows deeper into the medulla, the osmolarity of the ________ increases, allowing for greater ion reabsorption and a more concentrated medullary ________.

retention of salt

Overall, aldosterone- induced Na+ reabsorption and K+ excretion enhance the ________ and the elimination of potassium, leading to an increase in extracellular fluid volume, blood pressure, and electrolyte balance.

current multiplier mechanism

Overall, the counter ________ is a critical process for maintaining water balance within the body and is an important example of how positive feedback systems can drive physiological processes.

This, in turn, results in the active movement of Na+ into the tubular lumen through the apical membrane via Na+-Cl

K+ cotransporter channels

This induces the MR to translocate to the nucleus to activate the transcription of genes that encode for Na+ and K+

transporting proteins