Kidney and Digestive Function Review

A collection of flashcards covering key concepts of kidney and digestive functions based on the provided lecture notes.

How does heart function affect kidney performance?

Decreased heart function leads to low blood pressure, impairing kidney efficiency.

What is the pathway of blood flow through the kidney?

Blood enters through the renal artery, moves to the renal pelvis, then to the renal cortex, and towards the nephron.

What initiates urine formation in the kidneys?

Glomerular filtration in the glomerulus.

Describe the role of the proximal convoluted tubule in the kidney.

It reabsorbs water, glucose, and ions from filtrate.

What are granular cells responsible for in the kidneys?

Mechanoreceptors that detect blood pressure and release renin for blood pressure regulation.

What is the significance of hydrostatic pressure in glomerular filtration?

It helps in pushing the filtrate through but excessive pressure may damage the glomerulus.

How much urine is typically output daily?

Half a liter to a liter.

What substances are secreted into the filtrate during nephron function?

Hydrogen ions and larger waste materials, including recreational and medicinal drugs.

What phases are involved in the digestive process?

Cephalic phase, gastric phase, and intestinal phase.

What role does the liver play in digestion?

It produces bile that emulsifies fats to aid digestion.

What is the primary site for nutrient absorption?

The small intestine.

What happens to gastric secretions during the intestinal phase of digestion?

Gastric secretions decrease while pancreatic secretions increase.

What is the role of peristalsis in the digestive tract?

It provides rhythmic contractions to move content throughout the digestive system.

What structure increases absorption efficiency in the small intestine?

The presence of intestinal villi and microvilli increases surface area.

What does the defecation reflex involve?

Involuntary coordination between the large intestine, rectum, and anus.