Kidney Function and Nephron Physiology

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to kidney function and the physiology of the nephron, designed to aid in understanding the lecture material for exam preparation.

Tubular Reabsorption

The process of pulling desirable materials out of the filtrate and returning them to the bloodstream.

Tubular Secretion

The process of dumping undesirable materials from the blood into the filtrate to be excreted.

Countercurrent System

A biological system where two fluids move in opposite directions, enhancing material exchange.

Loop of Henle

A section of the nephron that behaves as a countercurrent system for reabsorption of water and salts.

Osmolarity

The measure of solute concentration in a solution, affecting osmosis.

Vasa Recta

The specialized capillaries that surround the nephron's loop of Henle, contributing to osmotic balance.

Peritubular Capillaries

Capillaries that surround the nephron tubule, involved in nutrient and water reabsorption.

Hypertonic Medulla

An area with high salt concentration surrounding the nephron, aiding in water reabsorption.

Vasopressin

A hormone that increases water reabsorption in the collecting ducts and regulates urine concentration.

Countercurrent Multiplier

A mechanism that amplifies the effect of concentration gradients through the nephron, enhancing water and salt reabsorption.

Juxtaglomerular Apparatus

A structure that monitors and regulates the glomerular filtration rate based on the filtrate condition in the distal convoluted tubule.

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)

The rate at which blood is filtered through the glomeruli in the kidney.

Renal Failure

A condition where the kidneys are unable to adequately filter waste products from the blood, which can be acute or chronic.

Acute Renal Failure

A rapid decrease in kidney function, often with severe symptoms, but can be reversible.

Chronic Renal Failure

Gradual loss of kidney function over a long period, often irreversible and can lead to serious health issues.

Proximal Convoluted Tubule

The first segment of the nephron where significant reabsorption of water, ions, and nutrients occurs.

Distal Convoluted Tubule

The segment of the nephron involved in the selective reabsorption and secretion of ions.

Sodium-Potassium Pumps

Membrane proteins that transport sodium out and potassium into cells, playing a key role in maintaining osmotic balance.

Metabolic Waste

Substances like urea that are produced during metabolism and must be excreted from the body.