24. Regulation of Kidney Function

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)

Rate of blood filtered by kidneys, tightly regulated.

Afferent Arteriole

Incoming blood vessel to the glomerulus.

Renin

Hormone released by kidneys to regulate blood pressure.

Angiotensin

Hormone that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance.

ADH (Anti-Diuretic Hormone)

Hormone that increases water reabsorption in kidneys.

Osmoreceptors

Cells that detect osmolarity changes in blood.

Aquaporins

Channels that facilitate water movement in cells.

Countercurrent Multiplier

Mechanism in loop of Henle enhancing water reabsorption.

Distal Convoluted Tubule

Kidney structure involved in ion and water balance.

Blood Osmolarity

Concentration of solutes in blood plasma.

Vasodilation

Widening of blood vessels to increase blood flow.

Hypothalamus

Brain region that regulates thirst and osmolarity.

Collecting Duct

Final segment of nephron for water reabsorption.

Urine Concentration

Measure of solute concentration in urine (mOsm).

Kangaroo Rat

Organism adapted to survive without drinking water.

Loop of Henle

Nephron segment crucial for water and salt balance.

Thirst Stimulation

Response triggered by angiotensin to increase fluid intake.