Lecture 29: Glomerular Filtration

These flashcards focus on key vocabulary related to glomerular filtration, its processes, and the cellular structures involved.

Glomerular filtration

The first step in forming urine, where a portion of blood enters the glomerular capillaries and is filtered into Bowman’s space.

Starling forces

Forces that determine fluid movement across capillary membranes, including hydrostatic and oncotic pressures.

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR)

The rate at which blood is filtered through the glomeruli of the kidneys.

Net outward pressure

The overall pressure driving fluid out of the capillaries, calculated by subtracting opposing pressures.

Fenestrated endothelium

The layer of endothelial cells in glomerular capillaries characterized by large pores that allow fluid and small solutes to pass.

Podocytes

Specialized epithelial cells in the glomerulus that wrap around capillaries and form filtration slits.

Mesangial cells

Cells located between glomerular capillaries that provide support, regulate surface area, and assist in filtration.

Lamina densa

A layer of the glomerular basement membrane that serves as a physical barrier to larger plasma proteins.

Hydrostatic pressure (PGC)

The pressure exerted by fluid within the glomerular capillaries that favors the filtration of plasma into Bowman’s capsule.

Oncotic pressure (πGC)

The pressure exerted by plasma proteins that opposes filtration in the glomerular capillaries.