Urinary and Digestive Systems

Flashcards covering key concepts, terms, and definitions related to the urinary and digestive systems.

Urinary System Components

Includes two kidneys, two ureters, one urinary bladder, and one urethra, responsible for waste elimination.

Kidneys

Bean-shaped organs located in the retroperitoneal space, measuring approximately 10-12 cm in length and 5-7 cm in width.

Hilum

A deep depression on the concave medial border of each kidney where structures such as blood vessels and ureters enter and exit

Water and Electrolyte Absorption

Process in which water follows an osmotic gradient and sodium is absorbed via Na+/K+ ATPase pump.

Gastrin

A hormone released by G cells in the stomach that stimulates HCl secretion and gastric motility.

Cholecystokinin (CCK)

A hormone released by cells in the duodenum that stimulates pancreatic enzyme secretion and inhibits gastric emptying.

Secretin

A hormone released by S cells in the duodenum that stimulates pancreatic bicarbonate secretion.

Carbohydrate Digestion

Begins in the mouth with salivary amylase, continues in the small intestine with pancreatic amylase, and is completed by brush border enzymes.

End products of Carbohydrate Digestion

Monosaccharides including glucose, fructose, and galactose.

Lipid Digestion

Limited digestion in the stomach; major digestion in the small intestine with the aid of bile salts.

Bile

A digestive fluid produced by the liver that contains bile salts, bilirubin, cholesterol, and electrolytes.

Functions of the Large Intestine

Includes water and electrolyte absorption, formation and storage of feces, and hosting of gut microbiota.

Pancreas

An endocrine and exocrine gland producing digestive enzymes and hormones such as insulin and glucagon.

Digestive Functions of the Liver

Include bile production, detoxification, protein synthesis, glucose metabolism, and storage of vitamins and minerals.

Peristalsis

Wave-like muscular contractions in the digestive tract that propel food through the GI tract.

Histological Features of the Large Intestine

Characterized by the absence of villi, presence of goblet cells, and unique structures like haustra and teniae coli.