Chapter 17 Physiology of the Kidneys

These flashcards cover the key concepts related to the physiology of the kidneys, focusing on their structure, function, and regulatory mechanisms.

Renal System

Pertaining to the kidneys; regulates extracellular fluid environment through urine formation.

Filtration

Movement of fluid and solutes from the glomerulus into the capsule and then into the tubules.

Reabsorption

Movement of materials from the tubules into the peritubular capillaries, effectively returning substances to general circulation.

Glomerulus

A capillary network in the renal corpuscle where blood filtration occurs.

Nephron

The functional unit of the kidneys, consisting of a renal corpuscle and tubule.

Micturition

The process of urination, involving the contraction of the detrusor muscle.

Aldosterone

A hormone that stimulates Na+ reabsorption in the kidneys, increasing blood volume.

Countercurrent Multiplier System

Mechanism that establishes a concentration gradient in the kidney to facilitate water reabsorption.

Ureters

Tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder.

Acid-Base Balance

Regulation of the pH of blood plasma, primarily through excretion of H+ and reabsorption of bicarbonate by the kidneys.