Functions and Anatomy of the Kidneys

A set of flashcards covering the key terms and concepts related to kidney functions, structure, and anatomy.

Homeostasis

The process of maintaining stable internal conditions in the body, including blood volume and composition.

Blood Volume

The amount of blood in the circulatory system, which the kidneys regulate by conserving or excreting fluid.

Urea

A metabolic waste product formed from the breakdown of proteins and amino acids that is excreted by the kidneys.

Filtrate

The fluid that passes from the blood into the capsular space of the nephron after filtration, not yet urine.

Reabsorption

The process of taking back substances from the filtrate into the blood, including water, nutrients, and ions.

Secretion

The process by which substances are actively transferred from the blood into the filtrate, such as waste and excess ions.

Glomerulus

A network of capillaries in the renal corpuscle where filtration of blood occurs.

Aldosterone

A hormone that increases sodium reabsorption and potassium secretion in the distal convoluted tubule, influencing blood pressure.

ADH (Antidiuretic Hormone)

A hormone that promotes water reabsorption in the kidneys, thereby regulating blood volume and pressure.

Nephron

The functional and structural unit of the kidney, responsible for filtering blood and forming urine.

Renal Cortex

The outer region of the kidney where the renal corpuscles and convoluted tubules are located.

Renal Medulla

The inner region of the kidney that contains the renal pyramids and collecting ducts.

Renal Pelvis

The funnel-shaped structure that collects urine from the major calyces and directs it into the ureter.

Filtration Membrane

The barrier in the glomerulus that allows certain substances to pass from the blood into the capsular space.

Erythropoietin (EPO)

A hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow.

Osmoregulation

The process of regulating the osmotic pressure of bodily fluids to maintain water balance.

Electrolyte Balance

The regulation of ion concentrations in the body fluids, crucial for nerve function and muscle contraction.